A quick update, I have just fitted some new shifters/levers combo after finally making up my mind that I still wanted some Shimano M095's on this bike.
So I bought a set on eBay only for it arrive damaged in post, not sellers fault as I had inspected the photos carefully. Anyway, I got in touch with the seller and explained the situation and agreed on a part refund as I still wanted to keep the brake levers as only the shifter pods suffered damage in the post! So another set was bought, arrived yesterday and swapped over the shifter pods and fitted to my beloved Bravado.
I still love the XT thumbshifters but I prefer the looks of the M095's on this bike, it's a cleaner look.
Will take it out for a test ride today before picking up another GT bike later today. Can I ever have enough bikes?