Thanks for the advice so far guys 
I will get myself measured up so I get the right size.
Regarding the types of bike I don't think I want the curled handlebars, would prefer the straight handlebar.
I like the look of the Boardman Hybrid bike. Any others like this? What are other decent brands to look out for?
The best advice would be to go to your local bike shop and try out different sizes to see what suits you best. Try to visit a few shops and see/try as many brands as you can.
With road bikes it isn't so much a case of good brands as there are so many out there, and they often range from hi end carbon to aluminium more basic bikes within the same brand.
Make sure you buy a decent well fitting set of shorts and try to get a few miles in before the ride, as it can be a little uncomfortable when you're first starting out with road cycling.
Most importantly have fun and well done for doing this!
