Baz – I tried small files and emery paper and came to the same conclusion as you – cut them off and start again.

Paul – It's a 3 ½" Maisie, so not very big. I have tried the Dremel which worked quite well but is difficult to get an even finish round the hinges. I don't have a rotary table. I had not thought of a power file – could be the opportunity to justify buying one! I have often thought it might be useful to have one so maybe now is the time.

The other problem of leaving the hinges on is getting the outside edge circular. I tried holding it by the chucking piece and turning the lathe by hand with very small cuts so that I could stop when it reached the hinges, I thought I would then be able to finish the bit between the hinges by hand. This works ok but I think I will probably end up cutting them off and putting on new hinges.

Thanks for the suggestions – Bob.