Thanks for all the responses chaps!

Today I got the offer from the other place. It is a couple of grand less but nethertheless I accepted it and was geniunely delighted about it. I think the fact I don't care about the money just proved to me its the right decision for me.

I'm going to rip the plaster off in just a moment and call the recruiter. I'm not interested in any counter offers they may arise my decision is final and my gut feeling has reassured me massively.

As for damaged reputation, I'm not too concerned to be honest, the reason I am choosing this role is the career development is fantastic and I see a long term future there and in the commodity trading sector I feel I have a chance to really thrive in an exciting sector.

Thanks again chaps I know its tough to let people down but if I quit after a few months it would be like that for everyone anyway.