There's nowt up wit' a northern accent! I understood perfectly! Rain in the North West is not exactly unknown or for anywhere else in the UK come to that.
I have a set of Jeantex trousers and jacket which are only used when its absolutely p!ssing down. If it is only drizzly or even slightly raining, then I tend to leave the waterproof trousers at home as they make my legs wetter due to the increase of sweat. Ron Hills are great and they dry fast - if you commute. They are also my prefered choice in winter.
I think the best bet for the glasses is just to go to a decent bike shop with a good choice and try them out for yourself. Its a taste thing you know. It also depends on your budget and their intended use e.g. commuting, touring, racing or all of the above. Virtually all come with the usual uva/uvb protection certificates and the more expensive ones like Oakley will have you believe that they stop martian death rays from Outer Space as well. I have 3 sets from different manufactures.
And welcome to the Forums.