Oh this is great thanks so much guys! Yes! I know Anne Mustoe - very good. I've not heard of women on wheels nor crazyguyonabike but that seems like exactly what I'm looking for I'll check it out asap!

With regards to the bike.. I know.. my budget is just so small! But I love love love the Kona Dew Plus - I've got a friend who's really into this stuff and he'll know what to do, I've sent him a link. Be a real change from my current ride, but it's good to shake things up