Thanks for your responses folks.

- I've tried CURL, with the same result.
- I have also SUCCESSFULLY tested this using the same files from our
local server, and it returns the contents of the page no problem

With that in mind, I think the firewall idea might be something to
look into. It does seem to be some problem with our server accessing
itself so I guess we could start there unless anyone has any more
bright ideas?

thanks again,
Mat