Struggling trying to remove the side stand.

wrote:

Space permitting you may also be able to push it out from behind with a two legged puller (they aren't expensive)
 

There might be enough room (if approaching from under the bike frame) to use a small three-jaw puller. I like them for the additional stability/grip and centering.

Either way I think most of us in here can agree that POs are just the worst people.

Problem solved! I cut it off and bought another one on eBay for $10.00.
Thanks to all for all the good input,
Joe