Dearest All,
Wow - what can I say, I never expected such a great response. It is certainly plenty of information there to assist with my decision.

I should have been a little more specific about my budget - what I meant was that I didn't want to just buy any old cheap lens as I would rather outlay the money initially as it seems that plenty of camera users always buy cheaper lenses but then upgrade within a month or two!

There are some fantastic tips there that I never would have considered like bags / tripods etc so once again thank you.

I have always loved photography, but for some reason or another (work / social life etc) I never really purchased a decent camera. I have an ixus point and shoot that I took all through Europe last year and looking back on my trip I really wish that I had a half decent camera for that trip. I also have more time on my hands now and I cant play rugby league anymore (getting too old - 35!!) so I need a new hobby and this is something I can do for the rest of my life!!!

I will seriously consider all of the information that you have provided and let you know what I finally come up with. Once again, thanks a million.

PS.......this may sound like a dumb question but remember I am only starting out here (haha) - are lens hoods and filters imperative??

I really have no idea about filters etc!!!

thanks again