Surfing Waves

Hi guys, i'm sure you must hate these post's, but i was hoping I could grab some advice from you all about the board i should buy. I've been searching for ages, but there are so many that i just don't know which is right for me to get.

I have surfed quite a few times over the the last few years but more on annual holidays in Newquay. I am now looking to take it up more often and plan on going at least once a month around the UK.
I have always surfed on bic boards and have become quite confident on standing up and surfing on top of the wave. I began cutting into the face of the wave as well but this i am still learning.
I don't know whether it is time to step onto a short board, or if another is better for me?

I am 5"7 and slim build, and wanted your opinion on what board would be best for my size and ability. I am looking for a board that will last me a couple of years that i will be able to progress on, but still not be out of my depth to begin with.

What are your thoughts?

Thanks
Lennox

Surfing once a month... you can forget about a shortboard. Buy a shortboard if you intend to surf every day there's swell, and cope with a lot of frustration. Stick with the board size you are getting on best with at the moment. There is still a LOT to learn on these size boards.

If you had fun on the board you rode before then go with that, do you remember what size Bic you rode?