<<OK - My gripe here is really over consistency.
Why is it that nobody (incl Police) have ever had issues with me before?>>
Probably down to the individual copper/security man.... like some coppers tell drivers off for speeding and others book them..
Friends of mine were watching aircraft at Farnborough whilst parked on a busy A road. Coppers topped and served them with notices saying they'd interviewed them about terrorism!!! My wife and I have spent countless hours around Farnborough watching aircraft and loads of police cars have driven past without a second look. From one vantage point we use the aerodrome security people have often driven up.. and when they've seen our scope, binocs and camera have given a friendly wave and driven off.
That's life I'm afraid...