Probably a simple answer to this but I cannot see in the Admin control panel a section for modifying the default colours (yes I know I could use a different theme but I wish to create a new 'look' from scratch) I have set up and modded forums by VB phpBB and Invision quite easily but can't see how to do the same with Simple Machines software. Thanks in advance for any replies.
style.css, uou can edit it from admin panel.
Current Theme's Settings -> Modify the style.css file. (colors, fonts, etc.)
Yep. You'll want style.css and index.template.php - for sheer color changes, just style.css.
There's a great guide detailing which classes & IDs in the CSS govern which visual elements in the template:
http://patrick.hardcorecoders.net/tutorials/
Enjoy!
PS: lots more info in the Graphics & Templates forum, below.
Thanks for the replies, and so quick too I am impressed ;D