Thanks folks, hadn't thought to look at military boots as I usually get more walking boot orientated but the ones mentioned look great. I had a pair of Alt-Berg Tethera a few years ago that lasted one walk and then were sold. They were brilliant quality but I am a U.K. 10 and I found them just a little too tight on the toes. I expect I need a 10.5 in Alt-Berg how is the sizing on the military boots?
Its not the length its the width. Since you live in Cumbria your only about an hour away from the altberg factory in Richmond. I would reccomend that you go there and get a proper fitting done by the people who actually make the boots. It doesn't cost any extra over the price of the boots themselves and obviously it means you can try them for fit before buying.
I don't rate the defenders myself, they're too soft at the ankle for proper support. Look into lowa boots, they do a few without the goretex (Patrol, supercamp) They fit a bit neater at the ankle for me and the leather isn't too soft, but still very comfortable. The issue Haix are also very good with a squarer toecap so they have a bit more width in them, although they have a liner.
Tonyuk