Echo abracadabra strongly.
It's amazing the lack of gumption shown by some here.
A number of guys I know started off on an ATPL course not having flown before - I believe at least one of them has decided that they made a mistake.
Everyone who's serious about going 'pro' should get a PPL first - therefore you can find out if you are a complete dufus without pissed £50k up the wall.
I did and so far, touch wood, still don't regret it despite 9-11 making the road to a job much longer.
Listen to everyone but be very careful in trusting anyone!