Just purchased a new contract with the above phone and network.

At the moment I get very slow data with an "E" at the top? When will this change to 3G and I will be able to get higher speeds?

Thanks

Check your signal strength on the Vodafone network coverage checker. It might be that you cannot achieve a 3G signal where you are located.

When you go in range of a 3G mast?

I have "Excellent" phone coverage and "Good" 3G in my area.

Have you got 3g enabled on you phone?, if so go into your nearest City center and see if you can get 3g or hsdpa.
If neither work phone Vodafone.

I got 3g as soon as I went out in the car so I assume its just a poor spot where I live, but I do have EDGE and Wi-Fi at home still so not alot I can do :/

Indeed, NEVER rely on coverage maps, they are not accurate at all.