The only reason I didn't shut down as that I could imagine being called down by a weaker Ace. I have a problem OOP where I can't stop betting as I don't want to be bluffed .

I should have realised a weaker ace would check behind on the turn and I could have value bet any rag river.

I would suggest two lines here: first, raise hard (close to pot) like you did on the flop, then go with petty 1/3-1/4 pot bets. If you get raised, toss it.
The weak bet tactic only gives good odds to a strong draw so do you not think that just helps opp play +EV?

It seemed an easy fold (which I did) as a simple missed flush draw would not simply min raise the river. I could probably have saved myself $10 if I'd read this thread though.