Had a look at the front brakes, cleaned the disk and roughed up the pads as suggested. This has definitely improved them, I guess that's about as good as 35 year old brakes get. Thanks for the tips.
What a glorious day for a ride, felt like the doggys dangly bits cruising around in the sunshine. Plus the helmet improves my appearance, I don't even have to shave. In fact it seems such a useful tool I think I will buy a spare one and stick it in the car to wear when I go out on rainy days.
I was going to post a photo of me actually riding the bike, unfortunately the wife couldn't figure out how to take a picture with her iphone

Maybe when my riding improves I will be able to manage a selfie, can't promise it will be the right way up
