Helofan,
If it was me I would at least apply and see if they call you for interview. (The cost of postage is all you need) If you dont get called then there is no worries and you can carry on with your life. If they do call you for interview you know that you have a very good chance of gaining £13,000 plus worth of sponsorship which surely must be worth a trip to London. It would certainly show your dedication to a career in aviation.
One of the pilots who won one of the fixed wing scholarships last year had to come all the way down from Scotland and really couldnt afford the trains or the days away from work but he made it down and never regreted it.
We have all had to make sacrifices and cut backs to get to where we are, the odds are against us most of the time (CAA,Money,Medical,Employers) but the GAPAN odds are very favourable so at least send in the paperwork and give it a punt.
Good luck if you do
Flash