Have sent you a PM about Redhill and Biggin
With Regards to the rest i have to agree with the other posts, I did alot of simming before i went to start my PPL. It honestly depends on how you use the sim, I didn't try and use the sim to teach me how to fly. I bought myself a check list for a C152, sat down, learned it, and practiced doing it using the sim.
I also used to have a go at circuits, again, not 'flying' it, but the details behind it, I.e height, approx. power settings, flaps, e.t.c I didn't once think it would help my flying technique, because it really doesn't!
One thing i have noticed in people is that Simmers generally become fixated on the instrument panel, which is something you need to look out for. Also, where else can you flip a 747 at 600KIAS?
Best Of Luck,
FS