In reply to Tomsie:
Speaking as someone in the same position.....
Personally I've booked in for (this) weekend at PYB on a BMC subsidised course. I'm pretty lucky that there is a fairly active club in my City and I know they would be more than willing to have me tag along, which seems the best route, I'm only going onto a course for the sake of my confidence.
As a newbie I've found nothing but help and understanding from everyone I've spoken to, I'm sure there will be someone somewhere willing to give you a hand without going to the expense of a full week?