As far as I remember everything was in order when I glued it - no gaps anywhere, neck joint was flat, didn't clamp too hard etc. But obviously I've messed up somewhere. Not sure I am going to be able to get the neck out easily, apart from the gap and the bit of movement it seems solid. So I think I might go with the neck plate idea. Thought I might try applying some pressure with the clamps first to see if I can push the neck back down, before screwing the plate on. Good thought re the six hole plate. You're right it would spoil the look a bit, but better that than messing it up all together trying to get the neck out perhaps. The colour is a one off as well, which was hand mixed so not repeatable. So I would have to sand it all off and start the finishing again.