Hi there,

I currently work in an investment bank in London, working in P&L
Trader support..(Cash Equities) I am very much intersted in persuing a
career in trading, and just wanted to know the best options to go
about making the career jump. (Type of Professional examinations to
undertake etc)

I have been trading for about 2 years now, working with a firm out of
chicago.  You are a bit vague in saying you want to become a "trader"
since there are so many different types.  You should probobly pick up
the book "market wizards" and pick out what sort of trader you would
like to be.
Then there is of course the obvious advice -- start trading.  As an
I-banker you should have at least 5-10k stashed away that you can play
with on the futures or equity markets.
Another option many 'aspiring' traders choose is to start trading with
a trading firm.  They provide you with capital, equipment, training,
and usually a slew of other traders to trade with.  This, however,
should be viewed as a full-time job.  The firms vary as to payout, and
how much you need to bring in with you (some don't require anything).
Trading is not somthing you can just "dabble" in.  Either you commit
to it fully, or I wouldn't even recommend you try.  It's kind of like
a sport.. if your gonna go pro, you got to be better than 85% of the
people out there.