@proosen
thanks for the tip mate. that future floor stuff looks magic but i'm not sure if it's available in uk.
@rsxse240
does toothpaste really work as a polish ?!! i'll have to try that one.
for the sideskirts, the tin foil idea is a good one, i'd actually thought of it already. great minds think alike

. i think that is what i'll do as there will be no plasticard involved. the skirts are only small and subtle so just putty should be ok.
one other thing i've just been wondering, is it best to fit the spoiler to the body before painting, or paint it seperately and assemble afterwards ?
many thanks fellas.