I've had a bit of success since last posting...
In terms of software, I managed to get the alternate CD to successfully install ubuntu onto the 20GB Maxtor HDD. I spent a few hours last night updating it and checking out the various features - and sometime this week I hope to install the Apache/MySQL and PHP to complete the LAMP setup.
Hardware is pretty much complete too, though as it was updating, the case became very hot to touch. I've ordered a couple of 40mm fans from Kustom PCs today, which should sort out any cooling issues. The EPIA 5000 is housed inside a Maplin aluminium project case which was fairly easy to work with, in terms of using a Dremel.
So, I'll post a few pictures during the Easter holidays and I'll get a full (albeit, short) project log up on the bit-tech forums.
On a side note, whilst waiting for the updates to download, I started planning my next mod, which will replace R26, or at least put it on the back-burner for a year or so. It'll be using the Enermax Liberty PSU and Enermax Server case that I won from the Custom PC competition, but the internal hardware will be old-skool, as a linux rig.