A simple solution would be to get a UK AmEx platinum card for £225 per year and then you can emulate a gold VS in many ways by been able to go in to Clubhouses regardless of class of travel, and as Silver status has already been aquired, you will never have to queue up in economy check in.

Just have to convinvce AmEx for a card, and you're away. Bonus Priority Pass too, Oh and full comp travel insurance for any trip regardless of whether it was booked on the card.