thanks 385xza,
its from between '53-'56, judging by the SA gears . . but you're right about the chainring, though i have seen those style ones before, i might try and find an original BSA set.
Re the serial number, it was on the top of the seat tube, to the side: N42759, can't find how to date from that though.
thanks again for your help - i've got it working, and is great fun to ride.