Thanks all for the contributions.

It tells me that there are many different methods - so most choices will work, unfortunately it has opened up a lot more options for me to consider (arggh).

As with most things, experience and tutelage are probably best but it is hard to put that in a box with a ribbon as a present. I am leaning toward a wetstone with some quality jigs.

PS my highlights from the thread was Tormek being referred to as Torment (true as you want one but so expensive) and the honest description of Doug's Youtube presentation style.