Thanks again for your replies
In answer to Rob's quesiton behind the focuser the label just has the spec of the scope - and the little silver sticker says "never look at the sun"!
Well I'd love to say that I've tried all of your advice and it worked but I live in England and hence it's been cloudy ever since I started the discussion!
But when the clouds part I'll give it all a go. Fingers crossed...
Thanks again for all your help
Joe