Crikey guys, thanks for all the ideas, opinions, and support. I'll try and cover what's been asked/suggested, but if I miss something then its an oversight rather than me dismissing what's been said.
Re: health. I've seen my GP several times over the years and his solution has always been medication. This to me smacks of just masking the symptoms rather than solving the problem. I see 3 different holistic healers (chiropractor, acupuncture, TCM nutritionist), and have done for a couple of years or more. They all say that the only way to 'get better' is to have a change of lifestyle.
I am willing to retrain on a full or part time basis, but this (adult education) is an area I know very little about. I'm going to try and find out more about how it works and what courses might be available through the local colleges.
The problems at work have been brewing for a few years now. I've tried talking to TPTB but they've dismissed it as me trying to make trouble, or demanding an inappropriate amount of support for my position. As an example, I'm still waiting for a date to be fixed for my annual review, which was due in June! There is no signs of any redundancy in the foreseeable future, as the company is doing well and is currently recruiting.
My dream would be to live and work in my wood, but I don't see this happening any time soon. There are all sorts of restrictions on the land (TPO/conservation area/etc.) and due to the antics of my woodland neighbours they are being policed very closely by the local council. The best I can hope for at the moment is to find somewhere within walking/cycling distance, but given the location I think this is unlikely without a big cash injection. I am already investigating properties within reasonable commuting distance from the wood, and will continue to do this.
There is a dairy farm very close to the wood, and I get on well with the farmer and his family (they are supportive of the ideas I have for restoring the wood). So I guess there is always the chance of a bit of casual labour work there.
I will be organising a small meet in my wood next year. I'll have to be a bit careful about numbers to avoid worrying the locals that we're having a 'rave with knives'. Then you'll all have a chance to share my little bit of heaven.
My thoughts at the moment are that I just need a complete break from things to get my head straight. Having thought about what was posted yesterday, I'm coming round to the idea that I do just need to take the leap. That will then force me to make things happen, rather than just sitting here feeling sorry for myself.
Thanks to everyone who's contributed so far. It is helping me to start straighten things out in my own mind.
Cheers
G