intresting thread geoff, now as I know 95% of those mentioned on here personally after having met them "in the flesh" over the last 30 odd years, mainly in deep dark coners of all-nighters, weekenders, and soul-nights talking utter bollocks about records and other stuff in general.
All this leads to Soul-Source an absolute GEM of a site for all us annoraks who love the trivia and knowing stuff behind the "round bit of plastic" that has cetainly lead me astray since I was 14.
I have met some wonderful people on the scene and several dozen on here who have helped me drop little bits and pieces into stuff "wot I have written" over the years. Also given advice and knowlegde freely and helped without hesitation.
its hard to single anyone out of a community, but some are exceptional. My list (without predudice) includes most of the ones already mentioned. Oscar style pause:-
But top of the shop would be MIKE, as we would be back in dark corners without him. (we're not worthy)
Pete S always returns PMs in an instant. (thanks Pete)
and Malc Burton, a fountain of knowledge on the roots of the scene and as i once put it our "Elder Statesman"
Must mention King of the Modern clips Martin "Cunnie" Dixon, who can send me a link to more or less anything !
and Ian Levine, he's forgot more than most of us know !!!
and Above all a big thanks
and Merry Christmas to all our readers
Rob & Karen