Stuart
Nothing wrong with what you did, and everything IO540 said so far is fine. However, as an IMC "Newbie" a word of warning.
Some areas of the Scottish TMA are class 'E'. No need for a clearance VFR (whether you're above or below cloud providing you fulfill VFR criteria). If you are, or declare yourself IFR however a clearance is required.
Be aware of the Airspace you're flying in and what you can and can't do on the back of an IMC.
Fuji
Don't see your point. Providing you fulfill VFR separation from cloud you can be VFR "on top". If you're above 3000ft certain parts of those criteria are increased, but still applicable.
Where does the "800ft above the base" come in?