[quote name='Mykesbass' timestamp='1327258198' post='1508475']
You need to start trawling the for sale secton - sure there's a lot of expensive gear on there but at the moment, for example, Psychocandy has a 4x10 Laney combo up for £165 leaving you plenty from your budget for a decent s/h bass on here.
[/quote]
+ 1
Trace Elliots are great amps, keep an eye on gumtree, ebay, BC.
As for basses, try as many as you can in guitar shops, then look for the one you like second hand.