if one of the so different germans can throw in his 2 cents too:
first of all i dont think that we are that different when it comes to competitive racing, the major problem probably is really that just not enough people know about a uk esl league.
here in germany its kind of normal to play in the esl and the eas is running in its 8th season now, there are reports on giga and on many esport sites, so much more people know about. cause of that there are 4 grids now and the eps and the speed is wide-spread. alien types drive in the eps or in the highest grid and the medium fast drives in the lower ones. sure its no beginner league, but for what do we have olfsl and other?
if you once have tried to compete in any league you should be good to go for esl too.
the esl-site though is really a bit of a mess sometimes, but you can get used to that too.
so i just think get the word out and there will be more drivers every season, just keep the ball rolling.
and @ kev: have you ever heard that you can take your pc with you if you go study somewhere??
edit:
i forgot something: the premium account really shouldnt be a reason to not join as it only costs 2€ per month, that really shouldnt be too much for anybody...