If it were not for the R22, many of us on these forums quite possibly wouldn't be flying today.
Don't let the naysayers put you off. Get a feel for the instructor and the school first. Never, and i'll repeat, never pay up front. It may save you a few ££ an hour but believe me it could save a lot more in the long run.
Is Mike H still instructing? He did my instructor course in an R22. A great guy and you won't find much more experience in an R22 with a guy as nice as he is.