Very interesting info guys, thank-you all.
Feel as though this could be a good move for a career, as, with the HCS contract expiring in 2003, the MOD is "on the verge of placing all UK military fixed-wing flying training under private ownership." And, with an alledged shortage of Pilots in the RAF, what with reserves flying now, there has to be opportunities for those with the necessary skill-sets in the future.
Saying that, the only pedigree I had with my 9 years loading Herc's in the RAF was of the Chum variety from the mess - ho hum!