budget bike for commuting

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Hi there,

Wondered if anyone had suggestions for a decent hybrid/road bike in the £200 - £500 price bracket? It's mainly for my daily commute to work (around 15-20 miles) and I want something that's reliable and faster than my old (about 13 years I think!) Claude Butler Zagato MTB. I'm not sure whether a women's specific bike would be better or not - I'm about 5"5 and the Zagato is just a standard guy's bike.

Any suggestions gratefully received!