Got a lovely big paint stirrer from Leyland SDM
http://www.leylandsdm.co.uk/branches.html
Cost about 6 or 7 quid and looks like this.
Does the job in seconds and hasn't rusted anywhere.
I tried it in a Belgian Strong Golden ale with lemongrass. Very subtle...(i.e. can't really taste it!)
And yes, i have been lurking here for nearly 1 1/2 years without posting. Thanks for all the brilliant tips and hints!