Hi Adam,
Funny that - I went to Staplford on Saturday as well, I was also greeted by Brian. He did exactly the same for me too, a long lengthy honest chat, then took me round to see the aircraft which are in top notch condition. Trust me on this, i went to Cabair in Bournemouth before going to stapleford, and their a/c were really tatty.
I'm going to start my CPL / ME IR at stapleford after i have done my ATPL's as well. Where are you going to do your ATPL? i'm starting the course in June at the Met London Uni.
Thanks
Mitch