Thanks for the replies. It seems easier to do the JAA-IR and then simply go to the states, do a couple of days flight training to earn a standalone FAA PPL-IR and then come back and be completely covered for both N and G anywhere in the world.
The saying 'there are no short cuts in aviation' comes to mind.
Thanks for all your help!
IO540, I didn't recieve the PM? Thanks for all your advice though.
Richard