Hi mate! Welcome :) I am kind of exactly where you were last year, great to see you've kept the enthusiasm and raring to go this year!
My main concern is the canopy landing and felt like I was the only one out there thinking this too! (You're not alone!) From people I have spoke to the general feeling is that it comes quite naturally once you have had the training and receive radio instructions, but clearly not to be taken for granted.
Being up merseyside way, would the Black Knights be your DZ choice? (Where did you do your tandem?)
Iwan