"The majority of random first posts" should not be suspect if there's nothing suspect in them. We should assume good faith unless there is some glaring, obvious, indubitable evidence of dodgy doing, like a link that is clearly intended as malicious spam.
We are hosts and welcomers not ferocious, swivel-eyed gate keepers. Ferocious, suspcious gate-keeping serves no uses at all. If spam is posted, it is easily deleted. Pre-empting spam that hasn't happened serves no purpose. Genuine spammers will return if they are on a mission anyway. Being rude, spikey and offensive serves no purpose.
Courtsey is not an optional extra.
As I've underlined elsewhere the forum is an international resource that gets over eight million views a year. It does not need to be defended as if the space is someone's living room or have someone standing by the door with a pitchfork. It's not a private space. It does not "belong" to anyone. Courtsey should be extended to all here, especially if they are new posters. If you feel overwhelmed with supspicion and the need to be offensive, it is perhaps best to log off and have a cup of tea.
I'm not sure I buy it into the international resource thing but there have been one or two unfortunate misidentifications regarding spammers This is a UK based site and if the world wants to join us, that's fine so long as they understand that our 'world' isn't global
I'm a long time lurker, that really, really values this forum as a resource. I find the various viewpoints and exceptional knowledge incredibly helpful, and can lose many hours searching keywords and reading through posts from years ago that are incredibly helpful. The time people put into this forum is so generous and the community the regulars have formed is just joyous.
Posts
Forgive me, but I'm not too sure what the point of your post is?
This is a UK based site and if the world wants to join us, that's fine so long as they understand that our 'world' isn't global
Go on somebody. Do it!
Nice to see you posting @tlchimera
It's easy when we pluck up the courage.
https://forum.gardenersworld.com/discussion/1061856/hearing-from-regular-readers-who-dont-comment-happy-lurkers-and-the-hesitant/p1