In reply to Ciderslider:
I have heard several times that skipping HVS and going to E1 is best.
HVS has a fair number of unusual routes/thrutches/historic sandbags. E1s tend to be more honest climbing. So the thought goes....
Have to say though, swanage HVS grade has some excellent routes which aren't to be underestimated, and the difference between HVS and E1 are sometimes blurred at swanage as one person often gets a different experience to another.
At venues like swanage, the tougher sections of E1 are roughly similar to the climbing found on french 6a/6a+. If you can lead french 6a, then you wont have physical issues with the moves. Its just your head which you have to master, and maybe a little added stamina for gear.
I guess in answer, no, E1 is not a huge physical grade step above HVS, I do think it is mentally a step which people build up in their minds however. Maybe a change of letters from S to E does it, the thought that E is the start of the big league in British trad. Where it all gets serious etc etc
Thunderball if I recall correctly(as my friend found out with a sprained thumb): Good route, assuming the boulder is still at the bottom, from standing, there is a good small cam to protect the first move/boulder start. After that, gear is good and climbing safe from what I recall.
Post edited at 17:37