In my opinion, there should be only one person able to delete an entire thread and that is Nigel. It is HIS Forum and any deletion should be at his discretion. I understand that the Forum is a place for the free exchange of views on many topics, related to our mutual interests and as such, is bound to get a little 'Heated' at times. However, when comments become downright offensive, then it is probably time for the Administrator to take action, maybe by deleting the thread, or if practical, deleting the offending entry. It may also be effective for the Administrator to issue a warning to any member who posts what he considers to be offensive material. Persistent offenders could be excluded from the forum.
Whilst this may sound like censorship, I don't believe it will be seen as such. It is just a suggestion - for what it is worth.

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Willum