I don't think the weather is any worse - or better - now than it was back in 1978, or any year since.
It's always been pretty iffy for VFR in UK, and I guess it always will be. That's part of the challenge; part of the fun.
VORTIME - I couldn't disagree more. Either you are in love with flight or you are not. If broken plastic trim and old technology puts you off, you are not.