"Leveller - have you ever read a school anti-bullying policy?"

Yes, Tom, frequently. mrsleveller (Jools) is an MEd, lectures in education, trains classroom assistants and specialised in SEN, so it's something we discuss frequently (oh, and I have 4 children and 2 grandchildren). There is currently a debate going on regarding the over-protection of children, thereby depriving them not only of having fun but also of developing the social skills they will require in later life ....there could be a whole new discussion on the BS threads, but back to the issue in hand (dismounts from one high horse and clambers aboard another).

The remarks I made were not aimed at you, personally; I repect your position, your musical skills, your love of the music and your openness. I just think there needs to be a forum where we can all 'let our hair down'. Generally, a balance is achieved and those who indulge in bullying or have extreme views are usually counteracted by those of more moderate tendencies. I've just read Joe's post above and, to me, that seems like a sensible way to proceed.

In the end, all that matters is the music and that we enjoy listening to and performing it in our own ways. The fact that we are having this discussion at all, and with such fervour, indicates that the genre is alive and well.