I think I'll be going down the route of the stronger panel, i'll straighten the tailgate first - think the how to is on 80s cool. I'll probably use 1/4 ally and then get it powder coated grey/silver like I got the rear step and the bash plate done. Should look neat and stop the problem happening again.
I'd still like the barn doors but it looks like too big a job for me If I don't want to take the cruiser off the road for a few days - which I don't as it is my only vehicle - plus I'll probably need to get the door imported as they were never officaially fitted in the UK and the shipping will be pretty bad.