Good evening all,

I expect this notice will come as a surprise to some, and as something well overdue for others.

Catherine Tunke has been removed from the site.

Some weeks ago, following several keenly felt complaints about her behaviour, I issued Catherine with a warning. Prior to that I'd been periodically monitoring her activity in the site since December.

My observation is that Catherine has made a point of goading and trolling some members while courting others with extravagant compliments and soothing charm. Her behaviour has played the boundaries of acceptability with a fine sense of how to transgress against a few while cultivating a support base with many. I did find it difficult to discern her intentions which is why this decision has been so long in the making.

In the end though I have perceived hers to be an antisocial and negative mode in which to engage on this community site.

My final deliberations have been guided by what would be best for the culture of this community.  The ejection of Catherine, in that light, has been an easily-made decision. It's just time.  I've also had a sherry tonight and I'm feeling a bit twitchy.

It's possible, of course, that I'm wrong and I invite a lively discussion in the comments.

I do ponder at times like this what my dear departed brother Ern would make of our curious modern vexations. I suspect he would be troubled and saddened by the ethical complexities of the world we live in today. What I do know is that he believed one should treat others as one would wish to be treated oneself. That is the spirit in which we should all engage on this site and the ultimate test of a decision like this.  

I wish you all a peaceful and agreeable holiday weekend celebrating the 87th birthday of our gracious monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. 

Best wishes to all,
EMM