Lots of good info folks. As usual it isn't black or white. Groups seem to make most sense, but due to my location (N. Ireland) it will be more difficult to find a good group as I reckon there are just less around.
PFA also the only option if I wish to buy my own machine, but does look possible on my budget. Looks like a lot of C of A folk are spending money unnecessarily, when the PFA route would cover most folk.
Would love to come to an LAA fly in, but dunno if they do any over here.