So thanks to advice you have given me so far I get to the point where I decide I'm going to flash to XXKG3 and then root. All I know to that point is my phone model is a OZSKG2 CSC

I go off and look for packages. At AndroidFlip.com (http://androidflip.com/android-2-3-4-gingerbread-xxkg3-firmware-update-for-samsung-galaxy-s2/) I find a complete package link for XXKG3. It tells me this package is good for any phone irrespective of region or place.

Over at XDA (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1075278) I find another set of packages for both XXKG3 and 6. For KG3 it has a kernel package and a Frankenstein package. In addition for the KG6 it has a CSC that is particular for my phone.

My questions are:
1: Does it matter which package I use to flash E.G.; the one from XDA or Androidflip?
2: Is it better to use a version that has the CSC for my model phone rather than a generic? EG: XXKG6 rather than 3? XXKG3 does not require a CSC Package?
3: Why does one have a kernel package and the other seemingly not?
4: ANdroidflip says that as a precaution you need to note down your APN,MMS settings but I can't seem to find them to note them. Any advice on how to do this?

Best Regards and thanks for all the hand-holding so far
TS