Sam,
I've been at LGW for a long time and I still love it! Yes, the basic isn't that great, but you will make up quite a lot in allowances, hourly pay from check-in to check-out, over night allowance, overtime (on long duty days) and commission.
You'll also not pay "normal" taxes on your income, actually, we pay very little tax compared to the "outside" world.
You won't get rich in this job, but you can definately live on it, as long as you don't live the champagne life style...
Give it a go anyway. We're a fun bunch and we do have a laugh. Some people moan, but don't listen to them. There are so many other jobs out there that are a lot worse.
Good luck, and let me know if you need any other help
Gg
Ps. You so get paid for training, they put you in a hotel for the LHR part of training (safety procedures and equipment aka sep). And don't worry too much about appearance. You won't be sacked or grounded for an outbrake.