Just wondered if anyone has that combination, (mines a Samsung) & can get the TV remote to operate the Tivo Box, my Virgin TV area isnt even on the list, it just goes to Sky/Bsb

Why do you not do it the other way round? The TiVo remote can operate the Samsung TV. All the smart feature (most of them anyway) will be available on the TiVo. All you need to do is operate the volume on the TV.
Your TV remote may not have the transport buttons and, even if they do, they will only operate the recording and playback functions available on the TV. (I too have a Samsung Smart TV)
There is another way. Invest in an intelligent remote from Harmony or One For All. then you can operate the functions you need for the watching mode you are using. I have a Harmony One (now superseded by the Harmony Touch) so all my other 6 remotes are in the drawer.