HSMP - Late Application for further Leave to Remain

[poneke boy]

Hi there,

I am currently in the UK under my HSMP visa. I have been here for nearly 1 year. Sadly due to an error in my judgement I thought I could apply for my Further Leave to Remain within one year of entry. However found out now that I should have applied for it before the actual current leave to remain visa expired. I should have applied for it before 9 Sept. It is now Oct. I arrived in Oct 22 2005.

Would be grateful to anyone who could let me know what the best thing to do is.

Should I just send in a late application?
Should I call the Home Office ASAP and get their advice?
Should I get advice from an immigration agency?
Do you think I will need to reapply for my HSMP visa?
Is there a way to apply for my further leave to remain from within UK or will I have to leave the country?
I am still currently working, so will I be able to continue working until my late application is processed?