OK guys thought I'd revive this trail after a long silence. Many thanks to all who helped me and have continued to do so. I took the car to this year's AGM (great day and great venue), and guess what, it won the Thema prize. OK not an Oscar but it was it's first big outing and it came away with a rosette! Recently MOT'd and used it for work this week. Drives beautifully and feels very well appointed. Taking it to Mick Stirland when I get the time, for fettling.
Anyway, now I've bought a completely restored Beta Spider, 1977. I'm putting a post on the Beta forum, but just in case, does anyone know the recommended tyre pressures? I'm off to Silverstone tomorrow.