Applied on 15th of August in Manchester, did not give biometrics as they had the last set from Holland (they normally ask for another set)
Received back in York on 21st of August
Approved on the 17th and posted back on the 20th (next working day)

I applied via: http://www.vfsglobal.com/germany/uk/...ly-member.html

Only paid admin fee and postage cost, no visa cost (saves you £53 if using the above link)

Very quick turn around, but only a visa from September to December granted and not like before, 1 year


Hope this helps someone applying for a visa!