Thanks again for the advice.
I mentioned in my last message that I'm going to eventually (sooner rather than later, I hope) get my instrument rating. I'd considered the prices of such a platform, and didn't expect this to be it. Yes, I may outgrow my first plane eventually, but surely it's more important for me to embark on this mission and upgrade slowly over time rather than wait indefinitely..?
My trips to Scotland are ALL in fair weather. I start in late April and finish my season in October. My bag weighs 23kg (BA regularly weigh it!), and I travel alone. I'd just need length afforded by a fold down passenger seat, so I hope this isn't going to be a problem.
On the marital side of things... Yes, something I'll have to keep a close eye on. She's bought in for now, but that could change if I spent a sum on a money pit that stayed hangered and out of service year after year.
With the advice I've received thus far I was starting to think that a 140 is the way to go. If it works out I could eventually gift it to my son and move on to something IMC capable/more complex in a few years. Having got some hours up, and experience.
I'll keep watching this thread when I get back to the uk (tomorrow) - from a pc, rather than my phone!