For any future readers, this was a very smooth transaction with Stephen being happy to meet up half way and providing lots of documentation etc. Initial impressions of the RST are very positive. It has a relatively lightweight build and compared to my Sherpa (expedition spec) seems very responsive. It maintains the ability to happily bomb along tow paths whilst feeling faster and less frustrating on the road.
Once the dent in the bank balance is filled in I intend to spruce it up a bit. Span nidd titanium saddle, tubus airy titanium rear rack, fresh set of mudguards and possibly a set of those fancy 853 forks thorn are selling. I'll keep you guys updated as the project progresses. In the meantime it's a great commuting machine