Thanks for the advice Dominik - I really like the idea of having longer hair with the beard (it's been very short for so long), but the main problem I have with longer haircuts is this...

image

...not really much to work with!

I completely forget it's so bad (not that I mind) because I can't see it, but I just feel it's best to keep it very short. It's only an issue now because I'm not sure about the bald/beard look. I won't be totally bald I suppose so maybe there will be some balance there - it would be great to get expert advice but I wouldn't know where to start. As it is in the picture is long for me, as the last time I cut it was for Christmas.

Regarding trimming the stache, I am trying to resist and as long as I don't look in the mirror it's okay - it makes sense to try and wait as you say I'll just be putting off the issue until later.
I have found a barber in my town that offers "beard design" (for a price), but I don't know anyone who has been to them. They are a bit too young and fashionable for me too. I'd rather somewhere traditional with some experience behind them. A gentlemans establishment - maybe I'll keep looking...