Thanks for all the good input.
Christoph -- I like the "sword of light" here. Not as keen on the lens flares.
In fact I worked up this image because the sun was behind clouds and there were no flares IIRC.
Chris -- many thanks for your thoughtful reply. I use Aperture, but will try and work through these suggestions.
Good points, Brandt. Look forward to your pm.
Peter -- thanks! I'll look into this.