Ey up Stan!
Get a fiesta like mine... its wicked to drive! No joke - im really enjoying it. I drive it like i stole it and am having a lot of fun. I just need to remember that the brakes aren't the best...
That said, i've got a promotion coming at work and will be getting a company car allowance, and have been going through a similar thought process to you.
I dont mind the german cars though, and have more or less settled on a 01-04 Audi A4 1.9 tdi. 60k on the clock, 50mpg - for under £6k. 700 miles a week stan - how can you not want a diesel?
Anyway, someone earlier mentioned a Mondeo... my best mate has the previous gen diesel mondeo ST, and its a very nice car. Great interior and pretty rapid too... i'd have one but they're a little but above my budget (£8.5k ish).
Good luck though matey.