Ok thanks for replies. For more info I did 5 weeks work experience with VintageAero, which was a mix of WW2 fighter planes and general light aircraft. Time went quickly. I now work in a technical services department looking after the paperwork that comes back from airlines, so i get the joys of doing filing, scanning, answering the telephone, computer stuff all for 18k a year. Time does not go quickly and I don't think I'll get many promotions as the best jobs go to anyone who turns up with 5 + years experience on the line.
I'd like to go back to fixing aircraft, been thinking NDT work is worth a look in too. I've sent cv's off to local companies in last month. I promise to try harder to look for something better after all your responses.
More opinions are welcome..
cheers