defiantly works in 2nd too, annoyingly as you really feel it shouldnt, your never going to need HDC when in 2nd At work
At home

"I can't always believe facts I read on the web" - Charles Dickens

winner by default of the tractor vs caravan race

Had another look and the manual says 'HDC may be used in first and reverse only' but on the owner's manual says should only used on first and reverse only. Based on Oakwood's and CJ's observations we know that HDC works on other then first gear on manual so looks like its just not recommended but works almost same as the Auto.

Regarding the workshop manual I would really recommend anyone to get a subscription even for a day to read the principles of operations. Each section has usual details of how to remove and install components with very high quality CAD drawings, but the sections about principles of operation describes how things work which I find really interesting.  Freelander 2 TD4 HSE Auto
Zermatt Silver
Side Steps & Mud flaps