A big thank you for those very helpful responses. My question was very timely because I was able to cancel the order for the C-Beam machine without penalty. Clearly i need to start thinking seriously about a scratch build. To be honest I was slightly intimidated by the idea, having no engineering background whatsoever, but that's also why I joined this forum.
I had at one time been looking at a Stepcraft v2 420. Most recently a 1000x1000 xcarve machine has become available locally. Am I right in thinking that these too won't come up to scratch in your opinions?
I found your costings very helpful Jazz as costs are always (for most of us old farts anyway) a limiting factor. I must admit I think £1200 for a finished, quality machine is pretty good. I will definitely take you up on your offer of advice and guidance. I ope I don't try your patience too much.
Thanks again to all.