Success... I started again, laced all the outer spokes both sides first and the inner.. you're probably saying thats how it should be done..now I know...
Loosely tightened, the rim is fairly true on the hub to the eye. The amount of thread showing on the inner spokes is a lot less than the inner.. I'll try truing and tightening everything up next..
I haven't had that 'immensely satisfying moment' described by many building wheels..maybe it will come?
thank you all - I would probably have given up without the help and knowledge shared,
Guy