thanks Genese.
i think my main concern was as tecnology advances i didnt want to shell out too much on an out of date lens. but i can see that it would help me compose my shots more with a tripod, though the canon 55-250mm IS has got good reviews. was just trying to get my head round the best options, have only got the kit lens at the moment. hense all the sun flair spots. but it will do for the moment.
will have a look around and see what price they are,
do you think that second hand is a good idea?
but ebay seems to be about the same price as new price anyway.

Kevin