Would IAS keep 7 years ago refusal and appeal letter?

[myungheelee]

Hi
I am in the middle of processing ILR(Long Residence 10 years).
I have everything documents I need but there is one concern here;
My visa had refused 7 years ago (student) and I went to IAS(Immigration Advisory Service) Glasgow to appeal and I got visa successfully in January 2006 but I don't have those letter with me to prove that I had appealed.
I did send e mail to IAS Glasgow yesterday but it's weekends and have to wait about 2 weeks to get reply (their website mentioned). phone call only answers 2 hours limited time on monday(very busy line).
I wonder if they don't have record (7 years ago) because it's old or discarded, how would I have to do? what if Home Office does not have my previous refuse letter and appeal letter either when my agent tracts down?
Because I searched immigration record online but it seems to be only providing 5 years.

Another question is that in case of there is no record about appeal neither IAS nor Home Office, would it be acceptable that my previous lecturer write that I had visa refusal and appeal brief details and confirmation about I was attending full time study those appeal time?

Looking forward hearing answer soon.
frustrated now.

[myungheelee]

yes, I got it and applied to HO.