Hey Trolley, I'm not sure where you are _base_d in the UK but if you are close to London have a look at the Gorrick series or the Southern XC series for good practice races.

I started this Xterra lark last year after 6 years of Ironman racing and got a full suspension bike (GT idrive 4) which is a definitely good choice to begin with. Which is confirmed everytime I go up to Afan to train. I also bought a hardtail to learn the skills that I didn't have to because the bike is so forgiving. That said I would do the dame again as it get you the fitness and _base_ skills specific to mtb racing to allow you to progress.

Welcome and good luck (unless you are in M40-44)