I've recently got myself a 40D, and it's great. But I've used compact cameras before to get shots for my site.... so goes to show you don't need to spend the dosh.
I used a 20D when I covered the 1/8th Euro Indoor race for Neobuggy and again when I done the Neo08 for Neo and Racer..... it's a superb camera and no doubt some bargains available. Really the age seemed of little relevance, it handles the low light conditions of both events excellently. Downside is the smaller LCD screen for looking back at the photos, and the speed of operation is a little slower. Apart from that very good camera, nice solid metal body rather then the plastic you get from the 400D/450D etc. 30D sees relatively little change over the 20D, so if there is a big price difference I'd look at the 20D, if it's a smaller difference the 30D is newer so a better option.
As for the 1000D price, the rrp is always misleading. When it hits the market it will go in below the price of the 400D/450D. It's a competitor for the Nikon D40 and Sony A200, so I'd expect prices to be in the £299 range with a basic lens.
If you don't mind a second hand camera the 20D or 30D are better then the budget cams. They have better low light handling, nice solid magnesium alloy bodies and generally quicker inside. For example 5 photos a second with 30D and 3 with a 400D, so lots going for it.
Good luck with whatever you chose Chris, all cameras are fun.
