Javalin, you were bang on mate.
I don't know what the fuse does exactly but it was one of the two 30a fuses at the top of the fuse/relay box that was blown. Once that was replaced the handbrake light returned to normal and vagcom could finally speak to the ABS. It kicked up a fault that once it was cleared allowed the ABS light to go out.
Finally, after 7 months of rebuilding the car, I can arrange an MOT next week. Gotta love this forum!
Much appreciated J
Next, getting the abs light off my 206 gti...