Thanks Elkor and Spriggy,  this is way too much work for this old girl.
I must say though that I never knew you could do this ( bet not many people did? ) so I am still considering saving what is left.
Good thing is that it appears to be cosmetic and not structural. I have done some reading on woodworking forums and they suggest mixing 1 part PVA to 3 parts water and applying liberally, this will bind the original fibres back together then after 24 hours you can bog and paint.
I really don't want to spend alot of $$ on this old girl, just make her play really well and last a bit longer. Oh and keep me amused .
If it was a keeper and/or sought after title I would definitely consider the scan and print option.
The ideas that are coming forth are really cool and hopefully people will get some good info or options on this problem.