Bankrupt,
Have you tried argos. I know that they had the next model up the A600 for 134 euro last week. It was half price ( well half their original price). I think the a500 was around 110 ( but not sure).
there was also an offer in the catalogue of a half price accessory kit of a case, charger, batteries and a small tripod for around 30 euro.
7dayshop.com offers great value on cards and rechargeable batteries.
you can check the price on Argos 01 2161616. Not sure if the lines are not working or just extremely busy at the moment.
the a500 is cat no 5605053
the a600 is 5605273
They also had a number of other cameras on offer. You have to take their reductions with a pinch of salt but the price on the A600 is very competitive if you need to buy in a store.