Hardtail Bike Comparison Advice - Choice of two

[Nitrojan]

Looking to go and sort out a hardtail bike this afternoon via the Bike2Work scheme - I have narrowed my search down to two bikes. I'm wondering if someone with a bit more experience could take a look at both and let me know their recommendation on which one is best?

Any help is much appreciated

Marin Eldridge Grade 2012

or

GIANT XTC 2

As you can see, the budget is around £1000

Thanks

 

[touch]

You'll need to check the details of your bike2work scheme. Some of them limit you to bikes <£1000 RRP
The Marin is slightly reduced, but i think you need to pay RRP to use the bike2work scheme, which is >£1000