ILR- Continuous stay- time out of the country travelling

[Rads012]

I am wondering whether I qualify for ILR.

I gained Tier 1 (general) in November 2008 so my five years are due next month. In August 2011 I quit my job and went travelling with my fiancé for 8 months. On return to the UK, I went back to my same employer and have been there since. My 180 days continuous aren't broken when I am due to apply (as I can split the years from date of app). Do I qualify if I get a letter from my employer explaining days out of the country when employed as well as a letter from me explaining time out. Or will this extended holiday count as 'not the original purpose' of the visa??

Any help will be great.