Litebulb - yes 'market rate' is regularly quoted on this thread. It explains why there is such a massive turnover within BA currently especially at LGW where on average 25% of each course leave within 6 months. It is now commonly known that better basic salary and T&C's can be achieved at many more airlines nowadays.
As for the need of a 20+ year CSD - well that is probably the difference between BA and the rest, I'm sure your well seasoned travellers viewing this thread will agree. Experience in ANY job has its many advantages...