One further issue which needs mentioning, Andy, is how you intend to use your licence when you get back.
Consideration needs to be given to the continuing cost of keeping your license, and paying for your flying once you've got it.
I don't know what you do for a living but regular GA flying in the UK is a significant financial commitment.
You might like to consider the NPPL route or NPPL(M) - Fixed wing 3-axis microlights like the
Ev-97 TeamEurostar or
Ikarus C42 are just as much fun to fly but are significantly less costly than the regular GA stuff. There is less to learn overall, and there are some restrictions to the licence, but are just the ticket if you are going to be doing an hour or two a week in fair weather! Lots of UK clubs going that route too!
Try to sign up with a club that's not too far from where you live - turning up knackered after a long drive is not a good recipe for an enjoyable and fruitful lesson/flight - it's supposed to be fun!
Lots of good advice on this thread so far guys, hope we're not putting you off Andy !
Good luck!
BS