Time to go from Shotsweb, this time forever

[Richard Petty]

Although today has been the final straw for me this is something I have been thinking about for some while so I know it is not a hasty decision that I will regret later.

I stopped posting once before (2019) but when Covid hit in 2020 and people were all being friendly, supportive and it was nice when stuck indoors to chat with people I started posting again, but for some while now it hasn't been enjoyable and frankly I feel has become a toxic place to spend time where there is without doubt a clique of posters on here who will not allow any genuine debate and only want to hear from those who share their views.

Over the years I have enjoyed some conversations with certain posters, I wont list them all because hopefully they know who they are but those particular posters know that whether I agree with them on certain subjects or not our conversations have always been remained pleasant and often educational, one poster in particular I have often learnt some very interesting things from on a very wide range of subjects.

I have always tried to participate well and have often put myself out to try and find out things for people if I have not known the answer and I hope that for some posters on here the knowledge that I gained from the time I spent working at the club and in the local community has been useful when I have been able to explain something or known where to look to find such information.

However I am also fully aware that there are some posters on here who do not like my contributions especially if by supplying facts I have spoilt there theories or attempts at stirring up trouble, those posters will I am sure be more than happy to see me go.

Today has upset many people myself included especially as I had a guest in hospitality today as a birthday treat for them having spent near enough three hours at the club in the morning with other wonderful volunteers who worked really hard to get that game on and the refs decision to call it off was a real kick in the teeth, a decision I certainly have my own views on. However to be told by what I felt was a particularly arrogant poster this evening (maybe he didn't realise how rudely he came across) that I should not give my opinion on the days events and that I was trying to act as a club spokesman has pushed me over the edge and made me decide its time to call it a day on here permanently.

Chatting on a forum about the football club that we all love and have done for many years (30 years this year for me) should be fun not something that raises my stress levels to the point of genuine and serious anger so to get back to a relaxed and stress free retirement I will no longer contribute.

To those who I have enjoyed some good banter with and some interesting debates, thank you.

[Old Bob]

Richard, can I ask you please to look at my reply to Shot54 posted about 10 minutes or so ago? It may be of interest to you to see how other posters (well just me really ) feel about today's happenings.

[lowerbourneshot]

5/10

[Shawford Shot]

Richard, if you do leave Shotsweb it will be a big loss from my perspective. You always provided a voice of reason and reasonableness on this forum, backed up with facts, common sense and moderation. You will be much missed.

[redandbluescb]

Richard i have always found your posts very informative and you obviously
love our club as much as i do. Some posters on here dont give a **** about
the team or club as a whole we need posters like you, its easy to pick up
on true fans, just dont converse with the others.

[Stenhouse]

I respect your decision Richard. You as all others do not need or have to post on Shotsweb. Just a shame that some make it so awkward for others. Take a break and come back when you feel up to it.

[Stenhouse]

Richard, if you do leave Shotsweb it will be a big loss from my perspective. You always provided a voice of reason and reasonableness on this forum, backed up with facts, common sense and moderation. You will be much missed.

Agreed.

[Northcampshot]

Richard, don't go, you are one of the people that makes us all have a think. It has been a rubbish day for the club but we do need you around.

[Josh]

Tomorrow is another day. Relax and crack on

[comeonshots]

You have to make your decision Richard but fwiw your contributions are a helpful voice of sanity. You understand the wider workings of the club as well which is helpful. Sorry if you feel you have to go….

[Localshot]

Sometimes this site is awful for ones health and when that happens it is right that individuals should step away. I and many other posters rarely post these days as many postings are either toxic or repeated time after time. Others post simply to annoy others or to top up the numbers of their posts.
Please do not walk away totally Richard. Your balanced and thoughtful views are respected by those sensible enough to accept debate and opinion.

[MikeB]

I will miss your contributions, Richard. You are always balanced, respectful and informative on here. However, if you feel it’s time for you to stop posting, then you have to do what is best for you. This is nothing more than a level 5 football team’s discussion board, so it’s not worth continuing with, if it is causing you stress.

[Staffsshot]

I’m sorry to hear this Richard but understand your feelings
I always enjoy your intelligent and insightful posts
I certainly hope you’ll reconsider once the huge disappointment of todays late call off subsides
I wish you all the best Richard

[Fuggletim]

Think about it Richard over the next day or two, but the value of Shotsweb will be greatly diminished if you don’t come back. There are a lot of times I have thought over the years with many things “Why should I care?” but the answer is in the question with the word “care” because obviously I do. I think you do as well, so please think things over.

[Jonty1]

I’ve respected your opinions over the years Richard,not always agreed with them but don’t let these bully boys win who are only brave when they can hide behind a keyboard