Thanks for all the advice! I will check out 'banjo hangout' and the other places mentioned. I think I am going to have to do a bit of travelling and trying out banjos.. leeds and cleckheaton aren't too far away.

maybe i should make my visits coincide with any folk festivals that are going on in the areas where these shops are. cleckheaton folk fest is in july. Are there any folk fests in leeds/huddersfield area coming up?

I looked up Eagle music and couldnt see prices online, you had to ring them for quotations. i guess i'd have to visit there too.

I think I shall have to be patient, save up a bit more money and yes, buy one that i can 'nearly' afford! it's usually the best way. I don't really want to be lumbered with a crappy one, it only makes for frustration..

Cheers

Jane x