Thanks to everyone for their replies.
I won't be paying up front now and I don't think i'm too old now either.
Another question or two though, based on those replies...
1. If I did my training in USA, say with Orlando Flight Training, do I have to convert the licence or can they issue a CAA approved/JAR licence?
2. If I do self sponsor and put myself through training, what are the job opportunities like? Would an airline etc be intereted in someone who has gone through a small school or alternatively done training abroad?
Sorry for the extra questions and thanks...!