Hi Ian, i'd ditto the remarks made by MaxDryPower. When I was trying to find out what to do when, etc, I spoke to Multiflight and they told me that an IMC is not compulsory, and at around £1500 it's money to put towards another part of your training. So far, ive done my PPL, but i'm planning to begin my ATPL theory next year.
Where are you thinking of doing your PPL?