261,
Unless ATCO Fred from this forum has got in contact with you, then PM me as I may be able to help you out with a) upto date info on courses and prices.... b) experiences of those who were in a similar situation (myself included about 2 yrs ago at 28!).
Also if you search for a mil-civil atc group on yahoo, that may also bring up some useful info
And finally...just a personal opinion....but don't go down the safeskys route.....please
Cheers