I completely agree with your statement reidw. It was a great thread, with lots of input from lots of knowledgeable people. The reason Hugh sited for closing the thread was due to complaints from "others"( I would love to know who) that stated it was going off topic?. Which I don't believe for one minute..... and even if it was, where were the warnings or cautions that are given out first, prior to finally closing the thread.... like it is done so many other threads!
Honestly, I don't believe this for a minute, perhaps he is just protecting his advertisers or sponsors from bad press so to speak.
Sorry Hugh, I call it as I see it......
It just comes across as a really illegitimate way of losing down the thread.
I personally would love to see that thread re-instated.
Paul