im looking for a new chain, does it really make a difference on what one you get?
if so what one is best?

I run campag, connex, sram and KMC rather than shimano these days as probs with shimano years ago. They may be better now, not sure.

Just bought a 10 speed wipperman brass coated (arrived today) which was very expensive, but looks smart and if it stops the rust after a jetwash, maybe it might be worth it.

stops the rust after a jetwash

Lube solves that problem!

7, 8, 9, 10 or single speed?

How much do you want to spend?

General consensus is KMC or Sram these days and they come with the powerlink jobby included which is a big help.

I had no problems with Shimano but just picked up a KMC 9x-93 jobby to try as it was only £10.50 (normally £20 ish) and I have a KMC on my single speed which looks alright.

i got a 9 speed, always used shimano justed thought i would have a change. i was told if i buy KMC i need to pay around £60 for a chain!