dials and meter problem '95 diesel golf

my '95 TD golf (AAZ) does strange things when it starts.

the glow plugs go on as normal but when i turn the key to start it all the dials go in reverse against their stops and the clock, trip meter, and all the service indicators reset themselves. the odometer does not - i assume this is because that is generated by the ECU and not the dashboard. this used to happen very infrequently on cold mornings but now happens every time it's started no matter what the weather.

i'm very confused - and i forgot to say it makes quite a painful noise.

I'm not familiar with the UK vehicles, but it sounds like an ignition switch or power supply relay problem.