Advice on budget commuter hybrids

Hello, my bike was stolen so I’m looking for a good value replacement for commuting 5 miles per day on road, and I would very much appreciate some good advice from here. I’d like something that basically rides well and that I could expect to last 5-10 years (with regular maintenance and servicing) before it becomes not worth repairing. From what I’ve read, I should expect to need to pay £250+. 

A bike that seems popular in the bike shops near me is the Python Quantum 8000, which I can buy for £279. I did a test ride at a shop and it felt comfortable. It seems like decent value from what I can tell, but does anyone here have any experience with them or know much about the Python make? A friend of a friend has a used Python Quantum 8100 for sale, which is the same but with front suspension – I was wondering is front suspension on a bike at this price likely to be any use, or could it be more of a pain by adding weight and maintenance requirements?

Another shop suggested the Ridgeback Motion for £330. I also have a Decathlon in town, and was eyeing up the B’Twin Triban 500 (£260). I tried a Halfords Carrera Crossfire, but it didn’t feel as good a ride as the Python. Are any of these clearly a better option than the others? Are any of the brands best avoided? 

I wouldn’t mind paying more if a more expensive bike is likely to last longer and require fewer repairs, so that the cost per year is lower, if anyone has ideas that would be better value in the long run. I find it hard to tell myself what I’m paying for if I go higher in price. (Though, having had my last bike stolen, I’m not looking to pay hugely more.)