Thanks to all who have posted replies here; I had the same question and now feel like I've got a good idea about how long I can expect to wait now.
The CAA received my PPL(a) application today so I 'll let you know when my license arrives so you can get an idea of the current timings.
I agree, I think the EASA change-over is likely to throw a spanner in the works; the CFI at my local aero club seemed to think that the CAA wouldn't be issuing any new licenses between April 8th and mid-July 2012. Can anyone shed more light on the validity of this statement? I would hate to have to wait until July to take my fiancée/family/friends flying!
Thanks in advance.