Personally I'd remove both those lower branches at the bottom just leaving the main stem but it's up to you.There looks to be enough branches above these to still have a decent looking plant.Also remove that dead branch.You could do it now,many of my maples are having a second flush of growth now,it could spur yours on to put on some nice growth elsewhere.
I've bought a few 'bargains' from B&Q in the past,usually half price though....for £1.50 you can't go wrong,well done!

I would do the same, remove both lower branches.

You scored a good deal! The pot is worth more than what you paid for the tree.

Mike

I agree. Remove the lower branches that are rubbing off the main trunk. Then try to keep a branch on each side of the trunk.. _ a similar technique is used on making bonsai and so perhaps you should just check out the formal and informal style of bonsai. Not that you should strictly adhere to the method, but it gives you a visual on what branches to keep and what to remain. I try to open up the trunk a bit more to show off its lovely shape and curve. Here's a link as a guide: http://www.bonsaimary.com/basic-bonsai-styles.html

Japanese Maples Re - Advice on Wooden Skewers

Houzi,Thx once again for the advice about the Wooden Skewers

Are you referring to the Bamboo Skewers.There are packs of 200 12" available on the Bay..

Are these better pushed into the soil with maybe just an Inch or so above the surface ?

All these Little Trade Secrets are Hugely Appreciated and will help no end

Thank you

Regards

Stephen..Cheshire.UK

Yes that's the sort of thing Stephen.You can get them anywhere,pound shops,Wilkingsons,Tesco etc.

Yes just leave enough above soil to grab hold of.You can also stick them in dry when needed and wait a few minutes for a quick test.They even showed I wasn't watering a pot enough once...the bottom of the skewer was wet as expected and the top moist but there was a dry area in the middle.Clearly I'd been too cautious with my watering on that one :)