If you have a JAR/JAA UK CAA issued license that is valid till 2017 or after, you have an EASA compliant license. The first EASA ones are issued lated this year, apparently. But all licenses post 2017 will say EASA on the front cover. Thus, if your license expires after 2012, and you have not been required to convert already, you effectively hold an EASA license.
Got to appreciate the humour of PLD in Gatwick. Instructions issued in Klingon would be better understood.