Thanks guys, really helpful suggestions. I really appreciate you taking the time to respond. I'll take a look at Gedo website, see what they've got, and Duke for that matter ( I hadn't considered these mainly because I thought they'd be more Rockabilly etc...not my thing! However the duke special sounds very interesting indeed.). Tim toft was actually on my radar too, I think i will ring ahead to check what stock they have.......and that I might be able to try your Gedo, Pete, on my way to tim toft is very kind of you and I may well take you up on that :-)
I have been looking on the used threads and eBay for ages and I mean ages, and although I have not been in a position to buy until now, nothing really came up that caught my eye. I will keep looking though...everyday!
I'd be particularly interested if anyone has owned a Christopher bass too, as Atelier Kontrabass over in Frankfurt has a full range in stock, and so a visit over there would offer a wide choice to try in one go.
Thanks again everyone, and for the kind welcome :-)
Chris