How much money are you getting for Christmas? I always seam to find something else I must have when it comes to Barbel fishing - but. Lets start with the basics - a good sized landing net, ESP have just brought out a new one for about ?12.00. They do them in several sizes, go for the biggest. You want a good unhooking mat and some long bank stick to get the rod up in the air. A deep vee rod rest so the rod is held firm and want fall out. I think Ironbridge is straightforward. I believe there is a wear, which holds some good fish.
Good hooks are needed - ESP Raptor size 10's are good. Go for a straightforward running rig to start with large feeders filled with maggots and hemp. A big bunch of maggots on the hook will get you fish. Good luck!