In reply to stroppygob:
My recommendations (to be taken with a pinch of salt as I'm a well known cheapskate).
I use a Giottos mtl9351b with a Manfrotto 484rc2 ball head. £120 for both a few years ago.
I'd get a bigger ball head if I got it again, it works, but just doesn't feel perfect.
Ball heads are a must, it is so much less time and hassle to adjust - whatever you get, get a ballhead!
The tripod itself is ok. It locks and is solid. It is a bit overly heavy and complex perhaps, as the centre column can be reversed or put at an angle. I've only used these features a few times, so for most uses, thats been unneccessary.
I also use the £10 tripod I got from tesco (hama star 61?) as it is very light, compact and 'expendable'. Good enough for HDR, not good enough for night shots.
cheers,
Dan
Finally, here is some expert advice, it is good to know everyone on the internet agrees!
Thom Hogan says you've got to spend the dosh
http://www.bythom.com/support.htm
Ken Rockwell says they are obselete
http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/digital-killed-my-tripod.htm