Help with cork handle

[Jcvistait]

Hello, I have a 12wt with a six inch upper grip. Well, were the reel seat is inlet. Well the other day I was filling some voids, and sanding. Well the inlet was a little soft and tore. It lost about a 1/2 in. I notice there was not enough epoxy in there. I would really hate to have remove everything to fix. I was wondering if I could mix up some cork dust and epoxy and fill it. I also was wondering If I could put a leather wrap or something like that over the grip, or would it be better off just stripping it down and starting over. I guess removing the reel seat will be the hardest thing to do. Please give me some input.
Thanks

[gware]

Your idea to use cork just is ok. You will need to beef up the inside of the foot indent with a metal ring, that is standard on that size reel seat anyway. It is the metal ring that will hold all in place. Then fill the cracks and voids with wood filler and sand smooth. If you need help call or come on by the shop, I would be glad to assist.

gware

[Jcvistait]

LOL, I am in Missouri,,,,,might take awhile to drive there,,,,,,and where is the shop located? Thanks for the help. Would you use wood filler, or cork dust and epoxy?
Thanks