Thank you all for taking the time to offer me such great advice. It's good to get differing opinions based on people's own experiences.
Since I last posted I've managed another 36 mins solo time, bringing my P1 grand total to 1 hr 48 mins! Regardless of which way I proceed, there is one thing I'm convinced of and that is, learning to fly at Bodmin with its short uneven grass strips would ultimately make me a more accomplished, safer pilot, sooner. This is not to detract at all from the skills of pilots who've carried out their training exclusively from conventional runways and who will probably adapt to grass later. It's just a case of 'doing it the hard way' which, in itself, may be a disadvantage for someone like myself who has found the landings especially demanding. I set high - and perhaps unrealistic! - targets for myself and on times I've felt very discouraged. I know I'm not alone in feeling this way when learning to fly and with dedication, I know I'll get there.
In the light of the advice given here, I'm now considering my next move. My current feeling is that I'll either persevere with Bodmin and its weather, or go somewhere in southern Europe to finish my PPL. Taking the USA route is very, very appealing - especially in California! - and I'm making enquiries, but I have to say I'm discouraged by the amount of red tape involved.
Last edited by vegancruiser; 25th October 2013 at 10:45.