Cheers guys.
It wasn't my intention to get the Newtonian guys offside, haha.
My "prejudice" is no such thing and only comes from advice and opinions gleaned from many other sources over the course of now months of research.
Ive got another strong and contrary opinion now so iill take that onboard.
That said, im fairly committed to a refractor here. I like the self-contained nature and the portability. (at least at the focal length I can afford!)
Thanks for the comment on the Redcat, it looks nice but yeah, its very short.