If you are going to race then visit a local club and have a chat to some of the racers, see whats being used, Stotfold would not be to far from you:
http://www.stotfoldmcc.co.uk/ most Sundays (but not 13th) always a few there and top track. if you think you will stick then get good gear, brushless, approved lipo's etc. DMS in Watford is a good shop a Darren gives good advice.
There is indoor at Silverstone on saturday
http://www.oople.com/forums/showthread.php?t=62811 near the main circuit.
Also
www.hertsnitromodelclub.co.uk are near you, I don't know them but they have 2 10th buggy regionals for 2011 and may have a shop - so may be scope for electric there.