Thanks for all the helpful positive comments. Weather was bad today so I did not do my full 8 mile ride did a 2 mile full effort ride instead but was not the same and have missed the longer ride it to be honest. I need to invest in waterproof clothing. I may change my bike tyres for some slicks but I worry about the grip on wet roads. I am very tempted to invest in a hybrid bike but In some ways I like the fitness benefits of having a heavy dual suspension bike the front suspension does not work. I would however be very grateful for links for good starter hybrid bikes. The internet is full of so many different bikes I would be very grateful for advice on what to go for. I am 5 foot 10 and weigh around 13 stone.
Don't confuse tread depth with grip. I found the hard way that a knobbly tyre has less grip than something more road oriented on wet paved surfaces.
A touring tyre would be a good option - smooth and fast rolling on tarmac but with a tread pattern that'll still cope with a bit of light off-road use if you want it.**
There are two ways of looking at the benefits of a heavy slow bike. Yes, it helps in that you have to work harder and build strength, however an easier riding bike would help encourage you to ride more and to go further afield as you get into it.
When my old full-sus runabout wore out I took my time picking a replacement without the energy-sapping suspension and quite quickly fitted touring tyres to make it easier to ride. This new bike is still a bit slow and heavy compared to most but I've been able to take it on some quite epic adventures that wouldn't have been possible or enjoyable using the old bouncer.
If looking at new, one that frequently gets recommended is the Carrera Subway from
Halfords:
http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bik...-bikes/carrera-subway-1-mens-hybrid-bike-2015 Folk on here who have them reckon they are durable and decent to ride plus they are almost permanently "on sale" so can be got for as low as £200 if you keep an eye out. £250 seems to be the more usual price though.
Hope this is of use.
**Edit to add: In the wet any tyre will struggle on certain surfaces. Beware of painted road markings and any ironwork you ride over.