why not apply in person? as long as you have everything with you and everything is fine, you get your visa the same day.
you have to pay £200 extra but thats nothing. Ive heard so much about people applying for their ILRs last year and most of them waited for atleast 5 months!! 2 of my friends waited for 7-8 months! so dont believe that 14 weeks quote they give.
its very unpredictable. so i suggest appearing in person is the best way! atleast thats what im doing in june..because i hate it when my passport isnt with me.
