Eventually gave in and bought a Fender Squier Strat (Affinity Series) on E-bay. Used but in mint condition, black and white body, Maple fretboard.

Sounds great through the Kustom Arrow 16dfx I bought at the same time.

Have decided that the Strat is a classic of its kind, an icon no less - the way it is shaped and contoured, the easy playing action.

 I imagine that a Fender Stratocaster is built to higher standards all round, but I think I'll leave it to the professionals to decide whether or not to pay the extra.