Hi I am in a similar position - I have only shot recurve before and wanted a longbow 45lb with 30 inch draw. Last week I went up to Bickerstaffe bows in Kegworth just off Junction 24 of the M1 had a fantastic morning learning about longbows. Pip and his team are making me a longbow for £210. I cant wait the 6 weeks until completion!! I really can recommend Bickerstaffe to help you.
http://www.bickerstaffebows.co.uk/