If I get even close to that I will be more than happy,these are very impressive, many thanks for taking the time to post them.

I had the Sigma 18-125mm OS HSM version which is a completely different lens to the basic 18-125mm. It is a truly superb lens with IQ that is like the Sigma 17-70 and I would have no reservations at all in recommending it. Photozone have a review of the Canon version which shows that it is no lemon.

So many thanks to you all for replies that strangely enough are exactly what my thinking was on this one.
I thought the 50-200WR would be like the 18-55WR which has very good IQ and solid build quality, and being compact is not too heavy. I seldom use a zoom so it is good to know that this is a good choice. I value John's comment on the Paris rain, because I don't know about the English summer but on the Isle of Lewis it is wet wet wet.
What is disappointing is that after a very cold winter with so much snow many were expecting a good summer. I have lived here all my life and have never known us to be so far into a year without a week of sunshine. The WR capability is therefore a very welcome feature, and I just want to thank you all for taking the time to reply.

No longer available.

The 50 - 200 does not get a great report on Photozone,
http://www.photozone.de/pentax/138-pentax-smc-da-50-200mm-f4-56-ed-review--test-...
just wondering if there was any improvement with this version ?, would also value views from users of either version

I did say to some enquiries that I was not going to sell this on eBay, but have had a change of heart, and intend to do so, but before that I am willing to accept £285 inc postage. Will be on eBay from Monday.

Can I just add to this, some advice. I live on the Isle of Lewis which is some 40 miles off the North West coast of Scotland. I posted this lens at 0930 approx yesterday the 16th of July. It was sent by Royal Mail Special delivery and cost £6.70. The lens was being sent to Middlesex.

I was offered a more expensive option, guaranteeing delivery for the 17th, but I took the cheaper option which in the case of this lens was just a few pounds because I have discovered that whether you pay the cheaper or more expensive option the item gets there at the same time.

As I have said in this instance it was only a few pounds but it can become quite a substantial amount once you get up to a body and some lenses or accessories.

Isle of Lewis,Scotland, will post by Royal Mail Special Delivery, usually means next day delivery.

Forgot to add that it comes with UV and Polarising filters and a Lowepro Nova bag.

Last chance, heading for eBay.