13k
Alas it was via a splendid method called "self improver" which is no longer an option. Basically if you had more than 1500hrs then all you had to do was take whatever training was necessary (if any) in order to pass the exams. At that time you were also able to claim VAT exemption as a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ).
That was the way it should still be now in my opinion. Everyone now has to cough up the same money regardless of experience (I'm excluding holders of foreign professional licences seeking to convert to JAA). Too many pilots with great experience but too little money being denied a chance.