I agree with maxzer, you've got to get back into the swing of things again Paul, 6 months is quite a time to be away from your bike, your skills are gonna be a bit rusty!
And yep, I'd scrub the tyres in again, a good rideout should do it.
As for tyre brands, well we've all got our favourites. I always loved bt020's, their replacement bt021's were awful once 1/2 worn, and the 023 are supposed to be good, but never used them. Pr3 are supposed to be good all round, but I found them a bit mediocre when pressing on. Awesome I'm the wet though :P
Got Dunlop roadsmarts on the gen 1 at the mo, wooden when cold, pretty grippy when warm. Average in the wet.
My bro-in-law has used Angel st for ages, they really are good all rounders. The gt version lasts a bit longer apparently.
But we all know what my favourites are
:P