I'm with you Lizzie, although I too think the word 'racism' is a little over the top and that 'prejudice' is probably what you are really trying to say. I also do sometimes think that you can push SOH a bit too much, but you obviously are enthusiastic about them and their music, as am I. I too feel agrieved when people try the put down of 'Take your MOR and snigger/snoggers' in amongst most of their posts. What the hell is wrong with MOR or singer/songwriters? There are many singer/sogwriters who would pass their very blinkered view to my mind, but there you go, and who moderates what is 'Middle of the Road'? We live in a broad church and all the better for it. To my mind it is far better to just say 'I don't like' than to just show ignorance by that petty put-down.
By the way Lizzie - don't just pass us by at the Bedford Sessions at the next Sidmouth Festival. Come in and have a listen - and introduce yourself to me. Just ask for me by name - they know me.
John Barden