How do i remove the shifter and e-brake boots/gaiters?

[maciekish]

I've searched all over the net but noone seems to know how to remove the boots for the shifter and the e-brake on a A6 C4 (97) with manual transmission. Trying this forum as a final way out.

I've tried pulling and prying both the frame of the boot itself and the trim around it to no avail. Does the entire console need to come off?

Thanks
Maciej