Just thought I would throw some numbers up to gauge the competition.
In 1961 the UK Male population was around 25 millions, the RAF was 158,000 and the officer aircrew intake was around 1,500 per year.
In 2011 the UK population was around 63 millions (women are now equal with men). The planned strength of the RAF is 33,000 by 2015.
The UK eligible population has increased by two and a half. The size of the RAF has shrunk by about 5 times. The competition appears to have stiffened by 12.5 times, but in reality the number of aircrew needed has reduced even more.
Education requirements now include A-levels and the candidates presentation at OASC is stiffer. The best will continue to be accepted but the good of yesteryear may not be good enough for pilot.