So here is where I am at. Sorry to bore people but for me, this is a hard decision as its a lot of money for me!
(1) On one parkwood (£999) great reviews etc, I like the 29er inbred, this is more relaxed so suits me more and I cant see whats not to like. With dropper post etc probably easiest to upgrade later to a new frame.
(2) Ragley bigwig (£240 frame only - estimated build about £900)- Frames are down to only £240 on CRC, steel is preferable to me over alu, could build it over time whilst riding retro over winter, search out the odd bargain. Even if not and I buy all new, with similar forks to the parkwood, could buy a new deore drivetrain and brakes and get it built for about £900 to a good spec. Cant ride one beforehand though..
(3) Trek Stache 7 (£1050 less 3% cashback) - on sale at the mo and rates really well. Has 142 bolt through rear so more future proof to an extent.
(4) Kona taro (£899) alu version of the honzo. Only available in large which is an 18.8" frame (not 19!) and at 6 1-2 I'm dubious that I cannot try before I buy - no local dealers in South West near me. Spec is a bit worse than above but probably holds its value as well as anything and has shortest chainstays so should accelerate pretty snappy.
I do like the Whytes but they are another £200 more, and to be honest, having been on a few 29ers think they are just as much fun.
Keep changing my mind, was set on a stache last night and now having cold feet again. Someone decide for me please.