Just for closure here, it was the reg/rec that failed. The rectifier side was fine, the regulator side was not energising the field coil. Replaced it with an Electrex World unit. Charging perfectly now. Also took Skoti's advice on the EBC FA13V front pads and what a difference. No sign of any squeeling and the stopping power is about plus 50%. Thanks for that tip, it's now a pretty good front brake.