Hi mate,
I took a similar route to "flyer19832007", apart from the fact that I went Military - I'm currently going through training in the RAF and loving every minute of it.
After A' Levels, I got my PPL, did an Aviation degree and joined a UAS, and decided that, by the age of 30 I wanted to be flying a Typhoon/Harrier or similar!
Whatever you decide, have a look at all options-join the air cadets/join a UAS. Perhaps do work experience for an airline/get a job at an airport, then make your choice.
Theres a lot more to a military career (both good and bad) than just flying aircraft. Then again, for civvy flying you have to fork out lots of cash, or be lucky enough to get sponsored-and even those require significant financial outlay.
Good luck with it all.
P.S. flyer19832007 - Where did you study? London? If so, we may have studied at the same place!