Blimey Seamus - 9.6Kg, thats quite heavy. I'm surprised about it being made in China, I thought it was manufactured in the USA. Looks nice though, and only the 473'rd off the production line in this style by the looks of it.
I suppose being made in China is the price you pay for getting this vac for less than £150. I do like the look of that brushroll though, and those lovely lush brush tufts. I bet thats gonna be very aggressive on carpets.
I'm sure you will get back to us on its performance, but for the price you paid - its still a bargain! Well done.