Hi Loz,
I'm in a similar position. Only fairly recently joined the forum and yet to take the plunge. I cannot offer you any expertise. But I'm a similar age (23), and split my time between London and the South West.
I'm keen to give my first go sooner rather than later. I did try to PM you, but because I've only joined recently and browsed the forum I wasn't able to. Nonetheless, if you wanted to chat as newbies and collaborate somewhat in getting started in this world of punting then I'd be keen to do that.
Hopefully speak soon,
Elliot