So Scouse Phil - there you have it! The collective (ouch!) wisdom of some Ppruners for you to ponder upon.
Some excellent advise methinks.
Unless someone can say to the contrary, the point about the difficulty in hiring a helo when you want it and staying current post license is central to the case against IMHO. This leads to lack of spontaneous flying enjoyment and surely thats what any flying SHOULD be about?
I can vouch for taking a long look at modern 3 axis microlights - unless you really really need more than 2 seats!
If you really want to fly helos regularly - try the Euro Millions roll over on Friday
Keep us posted?