In reply to Luke14:
I like Canon Ixus series. I think they're now on Ixus 285 but you can find older models cheaper e.g. Ixus 230, 255, 265. Probably have to pay around £70 - £120. Model dependent they give 10 or 12 x zoom. Or move up to Canon Powershot SX280HS or similar. A bit bigger than the Ixus but also better quality and features. Should be picked up for £100 - £200?
I have one of each of the above and find them robust compared to my previous Panasonic Lumix TZ series - I kept breaking them!
I've just obtained at a bargain price a 2nd hand Canon Powershot S95. Too soon to pronounce on my preference or otherwise, but it's been a popular choice among climbers for some time due to its small size and fast lens. 3x zoom I think. More recent models include S100, S110 etc.
Can't speak from experience for any other makes except Olympus - I found their compacts a few years ago not quite to match up to their classic 35mm SLR for instance. By the way I'm no expert, just a happy snapper.
Post edited at 13:14
