Quote: Seems like you know more than the man in Jessops (now there's a surprise, unless it was the one in Reading
You were suspiciously close; it was Basingstoke. How'd you do that?
It's just that Tom Sargeant, a regular poster on these forums, and by all accounts, a polite, helpful, and well informed (on matters photographic) man, works for Jessies in Reading. My experience of Jessops staff in other locations is that politeness and helpfulness are quite common, but sadly photographic knowlege is getting thin on the ground these days.
BTW, the VR lenses I suggested aren't a complete list, there are several other VR Nikkors, as well as some 3rd party manufacturer's (Sigma, Tamron) products which might suit you. Let us know your particular areas of photographic interest (landscapes, sports, wildlife etc.) and I'm sure you'll get loads of suggestions.