i will be breeding from  bitch for the first time and would really like to find a stud dog fairly near to me as i understand we would need to vist him more than once. although this is a preference i do understand i may need to travel to a suitable dog as i need one with good 'straight leg' history  if anyone could advise me and point me in the right direction i would very much aphreciate their help.

You don't say what breed you have, but you should contact your bitch's breeder to find out which lines to avoid - some combinations can be disastrous. Failing that, your breed club members - the District Representative perhaps - should be able to help.

The best dog is hardly ever the most convenient, but the quality and health of the puppies is far more important than the distance you have to travel to the best dog. Anywhere within 200 miles should be expected.

Not very helpful, I know, but I'm intrigued by the comment - a good "straight leg history"