Thanks guys, much appreciated!
MLS, thanks for the info on the various sites, the main reason I didn't consider Dublin Gliding Club is because it's easier to go to the UK then get to the airfield every day
Australia is a very good idea, sun and heat is a strange fantasy in this country. The US might be an option as well... I doubt a visa would be required - any opinions on that?
By the way Robin thanks for the good selection of sites
Con