I thought it was only in India that pilot's licences could be bought - commercial ones at that. Sherwood's friend must have found somewhere else to get one. Certainly it would be rather difficult to get a PPL legitimately without understanding compass headings (although pilots would tend to refer to 270 rather than West).

To stick on thread - anyone flying over Forest Hill whether on a private, or commercial pilot's licence has to be under the control of Heathrow Radar (although they could be over Crystal Palace and 'uncontrolled' if below 2500' - the 'BBC' mast is about on the southern edge of the area where control extends down to the ground). A pilot with a Private Pilot's Licence over Forest Hill would be likely to be kept below 2500' - but wouldn't be flying a jumbo!