If your convinced it was not a linnet and it had a finch like beak the only other assumption I can make is a form of Redpoll. Take a look at this first link of a LESSER REDPOLL Carduelis cabaret. The link after that is also a Lesser Redpoll.
http://www.arthurgrosset.com/europebirds/redpoll.html http://www.davidnorman.org.uk/MRG/Lesser%20redpolls.htm
Now take a look at these three links to MEALY REDPOLL Carduelis flammea
http://www.lincsbirdclub.co.uk/rare_...ly_redpoll.htm http://www.birdguides.com/html/vidli...is_flammea.htm http://www.nyctea.co.uk/photos/finch...oll_mealy.html
If you are still not convinced I can't offer any other suggestion based on your description.
John