AussieAndy, Thanks for the encouragement.
I think that I will keep ambitions intact but on-hold. When I get my PPL (please, lets have some decent weather!) I will try and get access to a half-way stage, i.e. wobbly prop but with sticking out legs (Dakota? Tobago? etc) to get some experience and go for my IMC. At least the fixed undercarriage should slow me down when the airplane gets ahead of me. Then I will review my comfort level and competence in a year's time.
KitKatPacificUK, I'll take you up on that when I am allowed out on my own. I need the hours and benefit of others' experience.
CAVOK