Unless of course you import from Europe, then you pay no extra import duty or VAT, just postage. And things can be cheaper in Europe.

Try Exifer -see if that can read it. As George says you are doing something wrong, probably really simple.

@ George I never knew that about pressing E - learn something new everyday, thanks

What do you use to view your photos? In Windows, right click and choose properties.
In Irfanview under the tab image click on Information and then on Exif, in PSE4 (and I assume in PSCS2) rightclick, choose properties, metadata.

When saving in PS there is a box you can tick to save the exif with the photo.

Well, it took a while, but I've finally bitten the bullet and bought a new tripod. I went off to Kamera-Express (http://www.kamera-express.nl/) and sought advice. I came away with a Velbon Sherpa Pro 630 (without a head). I decided the Gitzo were out of my price range, the Manfrottos I looked at were too expensive, too fiddly or just too heavy for me. No point in a tripod that gets left in the car.
So I looked at the Velbons and decided although it is quite long when folded, which isn't so convenient when travelling the 630 had the edge of the 640 (which folds up shorter due to the 4 section legs). It just felt right. And I can use it with out raising the centre column at all which is perfect for me.
I have now fitted my Markin Q3 onto it, (bought for a good price on the net) and tried the Bigma - solid as a rock. I bought a Markin camera plate and a plate for the Bigma too, not from Kamera Express but from Nikonians as they are the European dealers for Markin. I am very happy

Now to add it all to the insurance! And to look for a strap for it, as it didn't come with one. I know Optech do one.

Already mortgaged to the hilt so the Wimberley will have to wait......

@Mannesty, the Bigma is not that heavy thank goodness. I was looking at the 055ProB as a possibilty. Now to find a ballhead or two to try on it.

Thanks Matt, thats what I was hoping. I shall continue the quest. Have to go off to a shop when I have more of an idea of what I want. I don't want to go in and end up palmed with something not suitable, or too expensive.

This may be a stupid question but I'm going to ask it anyway

I am in the market for a new tripod, one that can take the Bigma. I am thinking of buying a ball-head to go with it, as I understand these are the best for me. Haven't yet decided which model to go for.

Now for the stupid question...

If I buy a Manfrotto tripod do I have to buy a Manfrotto head or will any make fit it?

Well said Don.

Two of my brothers live near Slough (Chalfont St something - he's lived in both can't remember which he lives in now, and Little Chalfont) so I hope Mr Putin doesn't direct his not so friendly bombs at Slough!

I too carry my gear as hand luggage, without any problems. In some airports they insist that laptops are taken out of their bag to go through security, but never had a problem with the camera.

Friends went to Oshkosh last year and had a great time and took some great photos.
Have fun!

Thats why it's snowing here