If you plan to work on your R56 I highly recommend you pick up the Bentley Repair Manual here:
2007 Mini Cooper Base Hatchback - MINI Cooper Service Manual (2007-2013), by Bentley Publishing. It will pay for itself and then some as you continue to work on it. Also, take a peek at our DIY articles here. Most of our fueling related articles are for the Cooper S (N14) and not the Cooper (N12):
Mini Cooper S R56 (2007-2010) Technical Articles | Pelican Parts. However, most should be useful to you. Good luck!