So after a week of no PC as the processor died, I have a crappy basic one that can barely run Windows 7 with internet.

Been looking at the i5 2500 quad core for a while, but can't find it at a price I can really afford (buying a house imminently, so have to keep costs down).

Can anyone either a) recommend a place to buy the 2500 at a reasonable price, or b) recommend a different, equally capable quad core processor? Bearing in mind I'd likely have to replace the motherboard too.

Cheers in advance peeps.

I buy all my stuff from here, been using them since 1999 with no issues.
http://www.powerc.com/uk/ps/Intel%20Motherboards/1/s1/C141/
you will need to make sure your memory is compatible if you get a new mainboard.

As in the make of the RAM? Or the amount?

ram runs at different speeds and is usually only compatible with the kind of processor you have.
Have you thought about using AMD instead of intel? I switched over years ago. It is cheaper, just as efficient and runs much cooler.
you can get this setup for £174.90 inc VAT and free delivery.
ASUS A55BM-E AMD (SOCKET FM2+) M-ATX MOTHERBOARD
http://www.powerc.com/uk/ps/Motherboards%20AMD%20Motherboards/1/code/ASUS-F1A55-MLE/act/gpage
AMD A4-4000 Dual Core 3GHz
Corsair XMS3 8GB (2x4GB) DDR3 1600MHz

if your looking at i5 2500 you may aswell get the i5 3570K which is still seen as one of the best cpus going for a similar price to the older 2500, maybe £30 diff.

unless you plan on overclocking then its a different ball game

also yea you have to be carefull your motherboard will take it

I run a i5 3570K and i really love it ! Costs 215 euro's here.
I recommend one of the K series for overclocking..