Typical female car owner!

I have recently gained a problem with my cars headlights. I own a 1996 (P Reg) ford escort 1.6 approx 80,000 miles.

I noticed that the (L/H side) main headlight (as you are sitting in the car) is not working. I assumed it was the bulb but before purchasing I thought I would change the fuse. No change. I then decided to check all the lights and realised that when I put it on side light neither of them work, which is strange.

However both headlights work when on full beam (when the blue light comes on).

In short; Main beam L/H not working
Full Beam - both work
Side light - neither work!

I also have a problem with my dashboard lighting, as in it doesn't light up my speedo etc when I turn the lights on. I'm guessing this is all connected?

Basically I am asking what the problem could be for 2 reasons. Firstly I don't want to waste money by buying bulbs and fuses unnecesarily. Secondly if it does need to go to a garage it would be of great help to have some idea of the problem so that I don't get targeted with expensive or unnecessary repairs. Which I am afraid to say happens too much these days with women car owners.

I would therefore really appreciate you help and guidance.

Thank you :)

Anne