is there a uk version of a viva paper towel?

Don't know the answer to that, but a Viva paper towel is a pretty sturdy paper towel that doesn't have any type of design or texture to it. (by sturdy I mean when you dry your hands with it, they actually get dry, and the paper towel isn't a soaking wet mess)

You could try just smoothing with you spatula and then using clean copy paper as an option.

..moving to Cake Decorating.