Land Rover Repair: Spark plugs and wires, plenum, gasket

Question
The plugs and wires were due to be replaced at the last normal scheduled service according to the manual. However, I could not afford the $700 they required to perform this service, so I  told them not to do it at that time. The vehicle is running fine but I do want to have the plugs and wires changed to keep on top of the regular maintenance, but I feel that $700 is a bit excessive for eight $5 plugs and a $50 set of wires. Does this have to be done by a LR dealer or should any local mechanic be able to do this for me?
Thank you.

Answer
Hi Jon,

the price is far too high but very real.  That's what the dealers usually charge.

You're right about the plugs costing $5 each but the wires are about $100 to $120 and then there is a plenum gasket ($15) that is usually replaced.  The rest is, er, uhh, ohh, ... labour? (sounds like need).

The wires are not easy to replace and very labour intensive.  Yes, a local mechanic could perform this but it would be better if they are familiar with removing the plenum unit and associated hoses.  

Regards,

JohnMc