Absolutely and at the end of the day it is the inconvenience. We are flying out tomorrow with Jet2 to Venice and we need to go a day early. We have booked a 5* hotel which is expensive and with the Jet2 flights it is just about the same cost as the Cruise line will charge.
The convenience is that Leeds/Bradford is 20-30 mins by taxi cost £20+tip
To travel with another flight to connect with will cost us just as much and we do have the added benefit of an extra day in Venice so no complaints.
Again these are decisions that I have made based on what suits my needs rather than accept what was being offered.
I don't blame you for changing the flights your best option and I personally feel that as you have had to pay the excess for the Gatwick flight they should refund your cost of the extra leg room seats. Refund or take it off the balance you need to pay.

Good luck

Sue