Well after lots of research we have decided to go ahead and start building our pond. Obviously we aren't planning to stock with fish until spring but we have decided to start the build now as with three kids under 6 it may take a while lol!

Pond is going to be 8ft x 12ft and plan is 2.5ft under the ground and another 2ft above ground bringing a total depth of 4.5ft

Started digging yesterday, well my other half did and i thought i'd post his progress as i'm impressed with him for saying the ground is mostly compacted clay after just half a foot down lol.