OK. Now returned my handset to Handtec. We'll see what happens.

Interestingly (or not) once I reset the device completely through the menu (which took a couple of goes due to crash/lockuo) and had removed my SIM, the phone seemed to be behaving a bit better. I suspect this is coincidental, however.

I should also state, like others, that even after only a couple of days with the phone I find myself trying to swipe now I'm back on my N900.