CM
I have no problem with you going VFR matey!! As an ATCO we don't police what you do outside controlled airspace to that extent.
Timothy - of course we would look after you (as we always do
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But if you had a problem when there was patchy fog around and you WEREN'T visual it may take a while to get you over to us and vectored back (obviously you would be the priority traffic).
On the Biggin Hill scenario, what is the difference in price for a VFR/IFR (radar monitored) departure? You have oodles more experience and hours than me so only you can decide what is best.
Have fun (and watch out for the Epsom traffic!!)