That is a good idea.  Next time I am at my local hardware store I will have a look at what they have.  For this I used good old plaster of paris mixed with water and tried to smooth it on with a flat blade.  It went on ok but was far from smooth and of course when I tried to sand some of the lumps and bumps, a lot of chipping occurred.  Never thought of putting it on with a brush.  Thanks mate.

Phil