Isn't that a little harsh, 'jamescarruthers'?

I personally have been a member of the VOC continuously since the mid '80s and regard it as one of the better one-make car clubs.

I have also been an active member of this forum for some 14 years. On the whole, I regard it as a pleasant place to be. While I find the 'lounge' a place of stimulating discussion, no one is obliged to enter therein. Yes, a small minority of posters can be abrasive, even impolite on occasion, but the mods generally do a good job in weeding out the downright rude. There are far more who are willing to offer practical help and advice to those requiring it.

Regarding traders, which is the prime subject of this particular thread. No one is obliged to engage with them against their will, and, as has been said, they are perfectly entitled to solicit stock in this manner. Isn't this just a simple case of 'live and let live'?

Regards, John.

I think it's a rather stark assessment, yes, but you raise some interesting points. I, too, struggle with the nature and standard of discussion in the Lounge, but it seems that a lot of members value it. And I think I've made my opinion of KGF and their like fairly clear, but I'm not sure we're really in a position to ban them, either, unless they are explicitly ripping anyone off (opposed to simply profiteering from naivety). I once spoke to them, used my noodle, and concluded we wouldn't be doing business.

In terms of transparency, I'm not sure what you'd like, but (to be clear) there is no financial relationship with anyone other than those who sponsor the advertising banner at the top of each page.

Anyway, no-one's holding a gun to your head, and I'm sorry that you feel so negative towards both the club and forum. It's particularly alarming that you felt that you were mislead into joining. I look after the 300-series for the club, and would be entirely up-front about where we are (and aren't).

cheers

James

I’m not too worried about the lack of 400 support. It was disappointing but hardly surprising and don’t really hold it against the club.

I requested my account to close yesterday as I have nothing to loose and there is nothing here for me now. The trader infiltration is just a no go for me and does wind me up more than perhaps it would others. Maybe I would tolerate it in other circumstances?

My point before I leave is to maybe make other members look at what is being done on THEIR forum and if they are really happy with it. I may have joined in 2010 but this certainly isn’t a regular forum for me. Please don’t even consider changing on my account, I know I am just a 38 post member. I do hope the Administrators listen to those of you who are proper members here. I hold another forum very close to my heart and would fight for it... this one, this is for you guys to sort out and I wish you the very best of luck.

I am entirely comfortable and happy that a trader would advertise their service and infrequently bring to top.

That’s just my opinion, I don’t see the issue at all. I also believe it offers a service to members who may sell their cars and buy others.

I have no association for KGF. It feels a shame for you to leave on a point/principle.

Rest assured we do listen to members - but unfortunately there are sometimes conflicting views, and we can't win.

Regarding traders, we did establish the 'trader' account type, to try to at least make it really obvious when someone was dealing with a commercial entity. I'm afraid there are also enthusiasts who will prize cars out of owners hands for a low price on the promise of a "good home" and flip them for a hefty profit, so you can't legislate for all things.

But yes, nothing falls on deaf ears!

cheers

James