Thanks very much mad_jock
Thats what I was thinking too, but it did strike me how many people advise (including FTO's) and actually get the 150 hours before ATPL theory.
Infact, in many ways, after thinking about it, its better to leave the hour building till after the ATPL, then you'll be a more knowledgable and overall a wiser person to build up your flying skills. Plus as you say mad_jock, you will be current when starting CPL.
Thanks for your reply again.