Ben - my time to solo - about 20 hours. Don't worry about how long it takes to do that. An ex-instructor I know who now captains an A320 told me he always found those who went solo later ended up as better 'all round' pilots. Don't think he was talking about their waistlines!
Eyesight - I have a squint which was inadequately corrected when I was about 4 years old. Also, I am short sighted in one eye and long sighted in the other. My medical examiner had to refer to the CAA, but no problem - they issued my certificate. Renewal is a simpler process, unless your sight has deteriorated below renewal limits. I was told if the CAA were worried they might call you to Gatwick so their expert can take a look at you. They do their best to issue a certificate - wherever it's safe to do so. Failing that, the NPPL demands are less restrictive still - but wait and see what happens before going down that route. You want a CAA medical certificate if possible.
HH