Many thanks for the advice folks, much appreciated!
Looks like its a go for the PPL and then the ATPL. I'll definitely checkout BGS for the ATPL - was looking at Glasgow Nautical College because of its proximity to me however after reading a few posts on here it sounds like they might not be that good?
As for the medical, i've been pondering that. I know you only need a class 2 for the PPL but then the class 1 to progress. The only thing that puts me off getting a Class 1 from the outset is that you need to renew it each year and depending on how and where I go for the PPL I don't want the additional panic of getting it renewed when I might be buried in books although am I right in thinking only the initial is done at Gatwick and then the renewal can be done by an AME?
Either way a doctor at my local practise is an AME which is pretty handy.
Also I have a couple of minor medical conditions that I think might make obtaining my class 1 a lengthier process than a class 2 so again, am having to factor this in.