Thanks for the welcome all,
@bluebirdjones
I didn't make clear which visa we are hoping to get.. It is a visit visa, so that Chell can stay here for 3 months. The reasons for that are that should we realise that we are right for each other offline and before life changing decisions are to be made, Chell will have experienced what it is really like to live here (and to live with me) and have the information necessary to base a decision on.
I realise we may encounter difficulties with the visa process, but we are hopeful none the less and just in case - have our plan B at the ready

@Terpe
You mention planned changes for immigration from April 2012.. that is not so long off.. can you enlighten us? Or is that information already elsewhere on the forum.. I will have to check.
Thanks, and all the best,
Dave