I got mine after a letter drop. Got a reply within the week, Met with the farmer and job done. The previous permission holder was a bit of an idiot--Drinking-fires etc- I reckon my age was a plus (55). Got mine with a few provisos but got it.
All i can say is stick at it, I was lucky after only 10 door knocks & 10 letters,The BASC membership & insurance was a good talking point on meeting up with the farmer & seemed to impress him.
Good luck
Barnze