Thanks for the info and opinions- very helpful and good to get a balance of views after the negative comments of (most of) my work mates. I think charter flying is something that would suit me, especially at my current stage in life being single with no ties, so demand for pilots allowing I'd still like to give it a go when the upturn comes.
"Ed's babe", if you read this thread again, I'd be grateful if you post what you're holding out for as "something better". Not trying to provoke a reaction, just genuinely curious.
Thanks guys