east sider
My feelings are, if you can - go to other JAA states to try and pass their CV tests. Then if all else fails go and get the CAA class 1 with the restrictions. Remember EASA is looming and might be an end to CV pilots all together (who knows??). At least it gets you initial out the way, so should your eysight start going, or some other stupid thing then you have renewal standards. It is expensive to keep up though if you are not using it!!
Good to see yet another will not just give up - keep going mate.