I got a letter a couple of weeks ago that said they were launching the on-line application form in Novemer (which is now up and running) and would be looking to do initial testing no earlier than the end of November/beggining of December, so it looks like new year may not be a bad estimate. Didn't realise there had been a lack of applicants, everytime I phoned in the last six months they kept putting me off saying to wait for the new on-line form.
Good luck to everyone. Having spent the first 18 years of my life in Bournemouth, it would be fun to go back there all these years later, though its nice to see that the Seagull is still talked about. Funny to think I worked in the McDonalds down the road from there when a was i kid!