MTB or hybrid?

Tow paths maybe not but bridleways certainly can, often at short notice. As jemjah implied that her road riding is going to be more limited then there is little benefit to a cross bike. Also, as cross bikes are very similar in dimensions and geometry to road bikes and jemjah has said that she might need stabilisers for a road bike, they may not be the best suggestion.

i kind of agree. i just still feel a bit weak and if i come into any trouble, my leg just isn't strong enough yet to take too much. if i jar it at all (i have very limited movement in my ankle, so it happens more than normal) it is agony.

i want something that feels really solid if a lorry thunders past me when i get back on the roads (still get a little tense when a lorry comes anywhere near me! even in a car).

I like the Kona's and would probably invest in a second pair of tyres if i do more extensive road cycling.