In the bottom picture, I note there is what appears to be an orange coloured stem with nodules on it, but I can't see it clearly - if that is on the plant, it might be coral spot - google for info on that, and if it is, it should be removed asap, and any other areas which are affected, BUT, as this usually only occurs on dead or dying wood/plants, I'm not sure the plant you bought was particularly healthy when you paid for it - I'd be taking it back to where I got it from, specially if that is coral spot.

Hi Bamboo

I have take a couple of more pictures closer up than earlier. I don't know how to add them to this question so will start a new question....sorry to inconvenience you.
If possible would you read that question and give me your opinion.
Ta

Hi Scottish, I'm working my way through the day's questions and have seen the photos you added later, now I've come to the original question.

I planted a Cotinus two years ago and it had made no growth and just about clung to life, until this year, when it has decided to grow a little and is starting to look a bit happier.

I can't get up to my garden where it is growing as I've had a little accident which is restricting mobility, but I've had a careful look at the photo I took a couple of weeks ago and the bark on the stems low down is a bit stippled. I'll try to add it for you to compare.

OK -here it is -
http://www.growsonyou.com/photo/slideshow/203351-cotinus-close-up-of-spotty-bark/member/beattie

Noseypotter made a good point when asking about shrubs that naturally have spotty bark - Forsythia is one of them, could Cotinus be another?

My cotinus, Scottish, is quite a 'late starter' in my garden (I'm in Aberdeen).... every spring i think it's dead then it'll suddenly burst into life.
I'd cut out that branch with the spots though - looks like coral spot - it'll kill the bush from tip down to root if you leave it.

Thanks for the comments x