Re-pointing 1930's house

[Bobbins]

The is my first post so apologies if this sounds like a daft question....we have just bought a semi built in 1932 which needs the pointing reparied where a lean to has been removed. The pointing is quite pale and not soft but slightly sandy when you rub it. I would like to use pre-mix mortar if possible to keep it simple but have two questions - can you buy a 'softer' mortar rather than the usual B&Q packs and can you get it in a lighter colour? If you can't buy this pre-mixed what would the ratio/mix be?

Also need to remove paint where the lean to has been - any suggestions how to do this without damaging the bricks?

Apologies if this has already been covered on the site - have searched previous post but can't find anything relating to this.

Would appreciate any help - want to make a decent job of it.

[welsh brickie]

dont use prepacked stuff its too strong,the usual mix I use is 4:1:1 sand cement and lime mix.The original pointing will be of the same makeup.

[Bobbins]

Thank you - appreciate the quick response. Do you know if you can buy pre-mix or, if not, the best main supplier for lime mix. Apologies if this seems like a daft question but first time I have done this.

[welsh brickie]

any local builders merchants should have a supply of hydrated lime,sand,cement.