hmmm sounds to me mate that ur steering rack has gone....most possibly one of the track rods needs replacing (not track rod ends)
i had that with my blue 16 16v, would only do it 1st thing in the morn or when left for a good few hours - other than that its fine.
if u can get the wheel u think the noise is coming from and give it a good woggle left n right, ie push it towards the engine bay then towards u. there should be no play in the wheel whatsoever, if there is - uh oh lol
also have a look for uneven tyre wear, my passenger front tyre is completely bald on the inner edge now.
lots of ppl told me it could be, ball joints, anti roll bushes, track ends, suspension, top mounts, so look for those too - but as u said the 1st thing in the morning thing, this sends alrm bells ringing. sort it quick chap - my wheels now point in opposite directions, one straight withe the steering wheel and the passenger one about an inch to the left.
track rod kits from ren are about 60 quid.
Ray