Now moved on to a close inspection of the rear brakes. Although it has just passed the MOT, I found that both cylinders (12 years old OEM) were seized on the trailing shoe pistons. They don’t do as much work as the leading shoes, so I guess there was still plenty of brake to satisfy the tester.
Now replaced both cylinders using, for the first time, the nifty MG/Mini E-clip expander. Failed on the first attempt as the middle tag bent over at right angles. I think I may not have had the conical piece screwed up tight to the cylinder which allowed the tag to fall in the gap.
Having learned my lesson, the rest went without a hitch.

Tips: Only need to unfasten the long double spring at the top; leave the mid way coil springs and fiddly retainers in situ, and you have enough play to ease the shoes away from the cylinders.
Generously grease under the new rubber boots with Ceratec or similar.
Secure the pistons together temporarily with a loop of wire or string.
Make sure the E clip is applied with the open ends facing upwards, otherwise the clip will foul the bleed screw.

I retained the services of Mrs Deejay for bleeding purposes but it seemed to stir some amusement with my neighbour when he later said “what were you up to this afternoon…all I could hear was “in, out, in, out….keep it in…! 🥵

Doug
2011 Plus 4 in Rich Maroon

1972 750 “ComDom” sprinter
1958 Triton 650
1992 Triumph Trophy 900