A) 1996 - Age 21 (PPL)
B) 2005 - Age 29 (CPL/IR/MEP/MCC)
In between those 2 dates: I did a masters degree (in transport), worked my ass off (doing 12 hour days) to pay for flying and to save for the Ground Studies, CPL, IR, MEP & MCC. Completed the Gnd School between Jan 2002 and July 2004 (distance learning whilst still working). I bought a flat when market was at a low point in 1999, sold it not so long ago (and make a few bucks). And finally in 2005 I was able to afford to do CPL/IR/MEP/MCC back to back with 4 months leave of absence from work.
I too won't finish training until I retire
So it can be done HSBC or no-HSBC!