There are 2 forums, and other groups in fact in FB etc and the like. Take your pick and use the ones you like when you like. There is useful information on both, and different posters on both. Ultimately most people like me just want places where they can get local information, and as with most things the more potential sources the better.

This is the oldest forum, and the only one that was around (that I know of) when we moved to the area in 2005. I will always have a certain loyalty to this one because of that.

I would agree that most people would prefer recommendations on traders, local places etc to be discussed or seen by others - I feel it would drive more traffic here and in fact benefit both the advertisers and the forum but it's not my forum and there may be other reasons for that - it is a shame though.

The owner of the other forum has 'strong' views which I generally fundamentally disagree with, but I don't generally bother engaging with anyone on global politics if I can help it on a local forum. For clarity I frequent both forums.

The other previous poster alluded to did also not display their best side when on here, which actually is a shame as they appear to have their heart in the right place and have done a lot for se23.

Re the Library, I feel the above comment is harsh - it was going to close, a group of people got together, raised money and now manage it - it would be closed otherwise. They should be thanked for this not criticised.