Many thanks for all of the very helpful feedback on the various jobs to improve the performance of the boat, in particular John1642 for his helpful tips on the questions I had asked in all three areas and more!
Any more thoughts and comments on how to install a simple outhaul system, or blocks to upgrade rather than change the current mainsheet system would be greatly appreciated.
I had already noted other comments on the forum regarding the changing of the positioning of the genoa/jib fairleads (currently on side decks), which will hopefully improve my pointing ability.