Thanks for all the help guys. This is a huge learning curve for me (as well as my daughter) and trying to compare one thing with another is a bit difficult. We are members of the local astronomy group but feel a bit lost there at the moment - this seemed like a safe haven for a newbie
We understand that it's the scope that gets used that is the best one for us - we want something that isn't going to frustrate her to the point where she stops enjoying it, so the goto/skyscan part is important to us. As was also said, being somewhat portable is important for us as well as we get plenty of dark nights down at my parents place.
I'm now heading towards the 8" auto everything dobs. Looks like it will hit the nail on the head for us.
Thanks again - I look forward to reading and learning.
Nat