Re a virtual server solution - I've been looking for one as well. Here
are a few I've found (haven't tried them yet):
http://order.1and1.co.uk/xml/order/VpsRoot?__frame=_top&__lf=Static
http://www.spry.com/plesk-vps/
http://www.vpslink.com/
fwiw : Since your based in the UK give these guys a try:
http://www.memset.com
I run a few m_p apps on their vps' and they are cheap enough to let you
dip your toe in the water
+ given that they haven't been bought out yet they still have that rare
commodity :
support by the same people that run the show
Marcus
PS I don't work for them !-)