Having bought my car used and without the manual, I'm puzzled as to what indicator light it is that just appeared on my dash.

It's a red circle with two semi-circles around it. I'm tempted to think it's the worn brake bad sensor, but I had a brake job done not even 1000 miles ago.

That means the handbrake is still on, or the brake fluid is low, or the ABS is buggered. Most probably it is one of the sensors playing up. You really need to get your hands on an owners manual - try the local wreckers or Ebay. Don't count on your brake pads having sensors!!!