Muntons Old Conkerwood Ale

[Jon1964]

Giving this kit a go shortly, but understand the yeast provided is a bit short on size to Brew down to final gravity.
I am thinking of using a replacement, I have got in mangrove Jack's MI5 or Lallemand Nottingham 10g and 11g packets.
Also has anyone used an addition of lactose to this kit, wondering if it would be suitable to give it a smoother milk stout type finish.
Cheers Jon

 

[Jon1964]

Forgot to add, any thoughts on adding some plum essence to this at 2nd ferment stage, I'm partial to titanic plum porter and wondered if something like this would be ok

 

[Jon1964]

Any thoughts???