I did my PPL in '05 and did a couple of trips thereafter, then no further flying. Therefore my PPL expired in 2010 and my SEP rating expired in 2007.
I had no problems revalidating both early last year in a matter of three lessons and then a 'competency check' with an examiner for the SEP rating. Renewing the license itself was just a matter of paying a fee to the CAA.
That said, this was pre EASA so definitely worth calling the CAA to check the latest requirements.