Thanks for all the help. As I remarked to Brian, I enjoy designing and making tools like this much more than using them. The journey is the destination.
I'm sticking with my approach – cheap and cheerful stepper supported by bits I already have. I spent some of last night designing how I'm going to connect stuff up and will post here for comment when I've got something complete.
Basically I still want to be able to use the handle, but I also want to be able to disconnect the motor if I need.
More to follow (but not toinight).
Iain