Yeah, my guy is North-West based, so not an option.
Open up a thread with some pics. The Detailing section here is a bit dead, by all accounts, but I am trying to give it a bit of life myself. You might get some suggestions when folks can see your paint condition.
With regard to clay - If possible, use a Fallout remover and a Tar remover beforehand. I haven't the need to use it just yet but I have AutoSmart Tardis & CarPro IronX at hand. This will remove or, at the least, loosen as much debris as possible, meaning less chance you'll be pulling 'big stuff' on your paint with the clay. Start with a soft clay, as I said, and remember to work in straight lines. Very little pressure needed. Literally just the weight of your fingers. There is no such thing as too much lube.
Also, definitely consider giving it a go over with Tripple via a hand applicator and buff off with a good microfiber. I recommend the Kiln Zero Finishing Cloth from in2detailing. Tripple is a very gentle polish (more of a glaze, really) and hard to get wrong.