Thanks for that, Simon. I have always connected my "ordinary" battery charger to the battery posts (after disconnecting the neutral lead) and have never had a problem, which is why I was surprised by the instructions which came with the trickle-charger.
My advice about switching off the radio came from Honest John in the Daily Telegraph, but it is aimed at people leaving a car for a long time, eg at an airport car-park. I agree it shouldn't make any difference when parking for a few minutes.
I also agree your three bulleted tips. A useful hint I once read was, having started the car from cold, do not switch off the engine until the needle on the temperature gauge has moved off the minimum mark. Not only does it help to avoid battery drain, it also helps to avoid leaving the carburettor full of a rich mix which can make it difficult to start again.
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