IMC rating for MP IR holder

[ATP_Al]

Here's a question for you all

I fly for an airline and hold a Multipilot IR but would like to
acquire an IMC rating for private flying in the easiest and most cost
effective way. My single pilot IR has now lapsed, but I passed the
skill test in January 2005 and revalidated it in October 2005. As an IMC
rating is valid for 25 months, could I get one issued on the basis of
either of those checks?

Incidentally, can you still revalidate an IMC rating on the basis of a Multi pilot OPC/LPC, that paragraph seems to have mysteriously disappeared from LASORS!

Thanks,

Al