Stick at it!!
I started with the same outfit as Mr Fraggle on 22k which was about half my previous earnings.Five and a bit years later my basic has about doubled with allowances etc on top, in other words I'm about where I was before plus a bit.The main difference is that I now enjoy work, have more free time and am a good deal less stressed.The regionals are a good start but unless you particularly enjoy the work, move on whilst you can.
Would I go back to my old job? would I F*** !