I'm almost certain in is a Raleigh Gran Prix, after looking at images such as https://www.google.com/search?q=70s+...swBL44itNKsEM: Gonna take a look at the serial number today and see if I can confirm the year (I was told 72'). Also interested to see if it was one of the many bikes produced in Worksop. It has to be early 70's because by 76' they had gotten away with the decal on the top part of the frame. Hmmm.

I'm gonna try the kerosene method that 3alarmer recommended, thanks noobinsf for the video that should be very helpful.

The centerpull brakes are shimano, so I'm assuming at some point someone just threw them on. I took them apart and actually soaked them in some kerosene and they appear to be working just fine. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.