Rich,
I have voiced my opinion to you in the past that we should be allowed to share our negative experiences with other forum members - this thread proves that as a group we are able to make our points in a cogent and respectful way without descending into the comments section on a YouTube video. People here have shared their experiences, there hasn't been any ranting or name calling, merely a statement of the facts experienced by those individual members.
While it matters to all of us, for those of us in the States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and other far flung places we need to know what we can expect when dealing with the suppliers in the UK - shipping is crippling for us - I can buy a small part for $5 and then pay another $10 - $15 to have it shipped. With these kinds of costs we need to know that we are getting the best service - in some cases returning an item just isn't financially viable - so knowing the experiences that others have had is invaluable.
I understand that we don't want things to degenerate into bitter and angry, name calling but I can't help but feel frustrated that I can't get a balanced opinion here. I remember a thread about stainless steel bumpers on here - all positive reviews - you made a comment along the lines of "there's another positive review!" (not attacking you here mate
) but the reality is that a negative review wouldn't have been allowed...
If anything, this particular thread has been one of support, and constructive criticism - I too have experienced the same issues that people have mentioned. And, I would also agree that Mark is a great guy when you get to talk to him - the problem is he disappears and becomes unreachable.
We, the buyers, need to know who we can rely on - and in this case, the suppliers can get some straightforward feedback from their customers.
I am sad to hear that Geoff is working towards shutting up shop.