hey chambo,
i've worked on bikes with a few sets, i've found that depending on the age they can be fine but worn hoods suggest lots of use, i would suggest you phone mercian cycles in derby, they used to be the service centre for the uk but the guy that fixed stuff in their shop has set up on his own, can't remember his name but they now recommend him for servicing/advice and for some of the spares including hoods.
p.s i'm a campagnolo fan myself, i got 95,98 and 2001 record groups and never had a problem with any except for expected where, and all ergos are still working perfectly.