Many thanks for the replies chaps/chapesses.
It's not that I'm getting downhearted or anything, it is just the sort of thing that is nice to know. In particular, how hard to pursue another 'proper' job in the interim. It does seem that the ATP scheme is the best way into the airlines at the mo, and for the time being at least, I'm doing filing in an office for 6 quid an hour.
Oh! How the mighty have fallen!
Would still be v. interested to hear from anyone who is up for the mid-April dates.
Ciao!
CC