The 'direct' bit is always an advantage.
We've just come back after a last minute booking. When we got to the airport (Manchester) we were offered upgrades to 'premium economy' for £99 each(one way)....which the kids begged us to take. This gave us boarding first,free drinks during the flight and 2/3 extra films plus, of course, the leather seats and extra legroom. The food, I have to say was pretty dismal though.
On the way back, although we arrived over 4 hours before the flight, there were no upgrades left but the staff bent over backwards to try to help us - needing extra legroom for my ever-growing eldest son and found us 2 seats next to the emergency exit ( so only charged for one - $55)and 2 behind(which,as they are in groups of three, it happened that no-one was sat next to my younger son so he effectively had two seats!)We had tv's in seats both ways
My summary...the premium economy was good for the extra room, and if you can get them for £99, worth the extra.
The airline was great at check-in at both airports
The staff on board were possibly not as accomodating as some(we like Virgin best)..but it's a charter flight so you pays your money - you takes your choice and they are great for a last minute bargain

By the way, I'd recommend you take butties!