Well I got pretty good replies, basically my initial intentions were to develop a portfolio of my work, for which I decided to develop a 3D Pirate game using opengl with accurate wave dynamics / shaders etc, basically to showcase my work. Half way through I decided that why wait until I finish the game to apply for jobs, so I stuck my cv together and sent it all over the place. I actually applied to EA as QA tester, but they saw my CV and gave me a phone call stating that they were really impressed and asked me If i would be interested in working on the new Harry Potter title.
I also received interest from another pretty big development house for a football management title which is being developed, however I cant say im too keen on football, so not the one for me

Chris