Very interesting. I revalidated or whatever it is after a 12 year gap last year too. Had to do all the writtens, skills test and a qualifying XC. Interesting that it has got so much easier to do.
My mate has just revalidated after 14 years, however, and he was told he had to do all teh writtens which he has done. He had a different story from everyone he talked to at the CAA.
QDM