Hi,
I applied to herts last year 2005 through clearing - I was very shocked and kinda put off when they offered me a position on their course with entry requirements of A-Level grades D in chemistry and EE in any other 2 A-Levels (D,E,E). Got into Aston in the end (just about), who wanted BBB even in the 2 clearing places they had.
Wasn't sure on the quality of the course at herts after that offer, and as they are not to gain full accreditation till the first batch graduate in 2009, was not really that reassuring.
Thats my say on it.
Hope it all works out.