Thanks for the advice Marco. I have considered changing the gears but obviously having spent a not too insignificant amount on a bike, I'd prefer to get the gearing right if possible. That said, the one bike does offer customized options (unfortunately not gearing) and is my preference so I might just plump for that regardless. As you say, I may end up changing it anyway and will heed the advice regarding the hub.
I was born in Lichfield and I only hope that stretch of the A38 was not as busy as it is now nor had as many 60mph artics flying along it. You must have had nerves of steel!

Tonight's journey home was ok. A total of 100m ascent in just over 8k but most of the climb was in a 2k window. The gear ratio felt fine although I did find myself wondering about the finer points of riding fixed - pedalling through corners, stopping before unclipping etc. Plenty of opportunity to perfect my track stand though!