Sunday 27 October 2013

Sunday ramble a few pictures of Margate Beach Cross 2013

Sorry about the photos, I was down wind facing into the sun using the camera in my mobile phone and had very little time.























What to Ramble about?

198 comments:

  1. What to ramble about? Anything but Tim, PLEASE!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Agreed, 7:53, let's have a be nice to Tim week and totally ignore him.

    On the Margate Beach Cross it all looked pretty uninviting for spectators. Let us hope the riders enjoyed it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. William, You should know that the circumstances of Michael's mangement of his blog are not dependent upon your approval.

      Delete
    2. I was talking to 7:53 not Michael. I have no problem accepting that Michael runs his blog as he sees fit.

      Delete
    3. I thought this was yours and John's blog. Certainly seems that way.

      Delete
  3. Epps is annoying in being a councillor, albeit a failed one, and wittering on this blog rather than doing anything with the issues raised. We are paying for this jerk.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What is it with you, 8:41, that you just push out total negativity, never substantiate any of your claims and perpetually seek to insult people. You do not even live in Broadstairs, which I did until recently, so how would you know whether Councillor Epps has failed the people in his ward. You don't anymore than you know I was drummed out of the Pay Corps, which, incidentally, has not existed for years.

      Let me put it to you this way, Garbutt, and I am not on a be nice to Tim week, at least William got elected which is more than you have ever achieved. You just call yourself a mayor and MP candidate because you think it looks good on your personal profile, but you have never even stood for election.

      You are a very sad nondescript who sits on a PC pouring out venom towards his fellow man and ruining debate on this and other blogs. You never back up your ridiculous claims, insult people who question them and don't even have the guts to come out in the open. Fortunately now you have been well and truly rumbled and your comments are instantly recognised.

      How about you sue me, but I will not hold my breath on it. You are all wind and urine.

      Delete
    2. Let Epps speak for himself Allan, he doesn't need the Three Stooges act.

      Delete
    3. What is there to say, 10:29, you just make fool claims that you cannot possibly know or back up and then expect people to respond. You are right though that I do not need anyone to fight my battles, though anyone is entitled to join in debate in a democracy, but I need your silly comments even less. Grow up and have a proper discussion if you wish, but hereafter I shall just ignore your childish prattle.

      Delete
    4. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

      Delete
    5. Well said Epps you speak for yourself, so tell us about these fool claims of Thor being below Broadstairs you say? and there is no pollution is that right Councillor?

      Delete
    6. Yep, you're definitely Rick!

      Delete
    7. Thank you, Rick, for confirming I do respond to emails and engage on issues. The person at 11:56 who tries to call me out publicly, I have offered to email me several times, but he never does. That would involve disclosing his identity (like I do not know who he is) and actually making his case rather than some one liner snide remark. Takes all sorts I guess.

      Delete
    8. What has William said about Thor out of interest?

      Delete
    9. That he was the Norse god of Thunder, but not so important in the order of things as Odin.

      Delete
  4. It will possibly get quieter now anon commentary has been turned off. It does get annoying when blogging gets mired in infighting. I wonder why someone doesn't set up a blog just for anons?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Could not agree more, Barry, and, whilst I think there are some genuine folk, who for valid reasons post anonymously, the trolls ruin it for them as well. A blog for anons is an interesting idea, but which anon would have the courage to put his/her name to it. Much more fun spoiling other people's blogs.

      Delete
    2. You don't need to put a real name to start a blog, ask "Eastcliff Richard" and "John Hamilton"!

      Delete
    3. So why don't you start one, 10:43, and how exactly do you determine real names from aliases? Please do not tell me about phone books or electoral rolls because one can opt out of both by choice. Incidentally, who are you?

      Delete
    4. Hey? I don't want to start one, I'm just correcting Allan's statement.

      Delete
    5. Sorry, understand now. Seems though that there are those who will not even use pseudonym on an account for fear of being traced.

      Delete
    6. I guess I had better reiterate what I have said before here.

      1 I turn anonymous comments off when I can’t keep an eye on them, this is mostly at night, I tend to turn them on in the morning when I get around to, rather than at any particular time.

      2 I mostly moderate the comment from my mobile, this is a fairy inexact process and mostly involves zapping the ones where it looks as though the comment could be construed as libellous, or where there is mention of the old spams, 0%, firing ranges, ppi insurance and so on.

      3 I rely on the regular blog readers to point out anything nasty and let me know about it, either in a comment or by email.

      4 I apply moderation on posts more than 7 days old, this is to deal with commercial spam with about two and a half thousand old blog posts this can otherwise become completely unmanageable.

      I don’t have the time to operate comment moderation and I really mostly only read the comments that relate to the post thoroughly.

      Delete
    7. Maybe (5) should be that you automatically delete all comments where they assume the identity of anonymous commentators. All this Tim, John, Tom, Dick and Harry business is getting very tiresome.

      Delete
    8. Just ban all anonymous comment and have done with it.

      Delete
    9. We tried that William and you and Holyer prattled on every post driving everyone away. You and he are the problem not anonymouses.

      Delete
    10. Well, end of the day it is all down to Michael for it is his blog. The rest of us can take it or leave it as we wish.

      Delete
    11. Well said William. Set up your own blog though and see if anyone reads it?

      Delete
    12. No one seems to have commented on yours for yonks so who are you to talk, TG. See you have also gone ex-directory in the new phone book and you're selling your house. Afraid someone might knock on the door?

      Delete
    13. So much for William's suggested Tim amnesty! Thanet blogs are truly f*cked.

      Delete
    14. Hi, Peter, how about you and I try to kick off an exchange on thread, not that it is the most exciting subject. Did you go to the Margate Beach Cross at all. I drove through Margate, but it hardly seemed to be the kind of day for standing around on the sea front as a spectator. Dodgy time of year I guess for planning such an event, but I suppose the summer would not be an option when the visitors are all over the beach with their buckets and spades.

      Trust you will note that I have not broken the amnesty though I think the subject of it is desperately trying to wind people up.

      Delete
    15. William, back in 2008 I somehow got roped into becoming one of the marshalls for this event. I was working at Margate Winter Gardens at the time, and because there wasn't much work on that week they strongly "suggested" that all able-bodied casual workers help out there instead. I was recovering from a back problem at the time and still on strong pain killers, so I ended up spending several hours standing around in agony while being deafened and swallowing sand (weather was similar to this weekend).

      I tend to avoid crowds and noise anyway, so it's not the kind of event that appeals to me, but after my memories of 5 years ago I have even more reason to avoid it like the plague. Instead I went to Herne Bay and had lunch with my mum! : )

      Delete
    16. William, maybe you can invite your friend Mr Holyer to comment on this?

      Delete
    17. Forget it Peter. John is obsessed with just one thing.

      Delete
    18. Peter, fully understand your reluctance to stand on the beach swallowing sand and lunch with mum sounds are far better option on a dreary autumn day. Cannot really control the comments of others and, as I said, earlier, this is hardly a subject to invite an in depth debate.

      In fairness to John Holyer, once again he, whose name should not be mentioned, is still winding him up at every opportunity. The only way to totally stop this is for Michael to apply stricter comment moderation, but, as he says he does not have the time, I think we are stuck with him. Mind you his house is up for sale so maybe he is off to escape the Manston flight path. We can but hope.

      Delete
    19. Again, I'm not convinced it's just one person, but whatever.

      Delete
    20. Just a small point but interesting none the less if it is like this now what will it be like in the lead up to the 2015 elections

      Delete
    21. In truth, Barry, this all seems to be more about personalities than politics. Add the fact that the politicians who used to frequent the blogs have all disappeared and the pre-election debate will again probably be dominated by the mindless trolls. You know the type, "I have voted Tory all my life but I won't now Cameron has cut my benefits" being thick enough to think that is going to influence loads of other people.

      At least it should be a laugh with some trying to be as even handed as the BBC (tee hee) and those who thump the party drum that all the others are rich toffs or financially clueless reds.

      Let us just hope that some of those who think they could do so much better do actually stand both for parliament and the local councils.

      Delete
    22. Yes, let's hope Tim stands this time.

      Delete
    23. Oh please yes, 4:54, I could do with as good laugh at election time. Perhaps you do not remember his campaign in for 2010, but he announced his policies, never responded when challenged on them, failed to attend any of the candidate hustings and then, to cap it all, did not put in his electoral papers or pay his deposit. He just likes to pretend he is a MP candidate and it stops there.

      Delete
  5. Now there's a Tim amnesty, John Holyer has absolutely nothing to say!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What is there to say about a about a bunch of blokes on bikes riding around a wind swept and gloomy Margate beach in late October. Hardly the stuff of stirring debate.

      Delete
    2. Thanks John.

      Delete
    3. Anon 11:05 am,

      Oh wish it were the same for you.

      Delete
    4. This comment has been removed by the author.

      Delete
    5. For f*cks sake John, GIVE IT A REST!!!

      Delete
  6. Peter,

    Oh do be quiet Peter, you are strutting around pontificating about what I say and do, larding your facile comments with exclamation marks and capitals.

    I appreciate that you dislike me, this does not trouble me, I have been disliked by better people than you.

    In other other words, Peter, the circumstances of what I say and do are not dependent upon your approval.

    Or to put it in your vernacular: BELT UP you pompous TWIT!!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was right, he only comments on anything Tim-related, and gets a strop-on when people suggest he stops. Truly addicted.

      Delete
    2. Exactly John. As I've pointed out before, we're both probably disliked by several people. Yet you still persist in thinking that all anonymous comments that criticise you are by just one person. Weird!

      Delete
    3. Peter, to be fair, I also think they are. Same as all the aquifer, monitors, arrests, cancer and 0% salaries are. If you doubt me, just read said persons latest posting on their own site and then look at the number of comments using the same sentences on ECR. I do think they are best ignored, but clearly some folk find that difficult.

      Delete
    4. That's different, I'm on about the people who just generally insult John (and you, and me, etc).

      Delete
    5. Anon 7:01pm or is it you Peter?

      Please direct me to any comment that I have made about your friend on this Beach Cross post.

      Peter, you are peeved about my post at 6:16 hence your immediate reply at 6:16. This Post was there for no more than a few seconds before I deleted it. But that would be long enough for it to be forwarded to those who use the notify button, such as you.

      My post contained nothing more than a link to a website. This website does not mention or identify your friend. So why would you construe that my post was about him or her. I think you will agree that you have a reason. Would you like to explain it to your readers.

      Delete
    6. Peter, there are people whose point of view is very different to mine yet normally we can agree to differ without recourse to insults. There is, however, one who leaps in on the most inoffensive comment with stuff about old duffers, the three stooges and, in my case, usually how useless I am as a councillor. That is one and the same person who seems to regard insulting as some kind of debating skill. I really do not think there are many anons on here dishing out insults, but one seems to thrive on it. It may be something to do with being a couple of prawns short of a barbie, but who knows.

      Even old Rick, with his diatribes on ranges and bombings, does not tend to insult other commentators other than Tories in general in the context of his statements. If that is how he feels then so be it and although I sometimes attack his theories, he doesn't start throwing personal insults back at me. Generally I find him a lot more tolerable, a lot better researched and certainly more able to present a case than the more nasty anon (who isn't).

      Delete
    7. Macgonigal must be delighted Epps and Holyer turn this blog into waffle and distract form the real problems at TDC and Thanet. They should be blocked or any more than one post a day ignored. Don't bother with them Peter they're an irrelevance. What do you think about the Port's future?

      Delete
    8. William, let Michael deal with the insults then.

      What do I think of the port's future anon? I want it to succeed of course, just like the airport!

      Delete
    9. William,

      Your assessment of Rick matches my own thoughts entirely. His posts have never troubled me and I always try to read them. For reason of what -well I would say compassion but this would appear patronising - so let me say out of respect. This would not be a lie. There but for the grace of God go I

      Delete
    10. Peter your 8:08 pm,

      Well of course I was referring to .... ........ hey wait a minute, I geddit, you are trying to trap me, you are a clever fellow, you almost caught me out there.

      Delete
    11. Peter, the trouble is Michael does not deal with the insults for the same reason he does not apply comment moderation so I am trying hard to ignore them.

      Delete
    12. I guess everything is very black and white with you John: if someone criticises your posts then they "dislike" you, but if they say that someone's opinions are interesting then they're a "friend". I thought this sort of attitude only existed amongst adolescents on facebook etc, but obviously I was mistaken!

      Delete
    13. Peter,

      I truly agree with you for I too have always said that I want the Port and Manston Airport to succeed. I believe they will.

      [Now stand by for incoming].

      Delete
    14. Oh, Peter, your 8:33 pm, I indicated nothing of the sort and you know it. Insults are not criticism, can you not grasp that.

      Either you are judging me by your own standards or just being argumentative for the sake of it. Whatever the truth may be , I do not need to a will not explain myself to you.

      Delete
    15. Yes you did, you said that someone was my friend!

      Truth is, I can't think of anyone who writes for or comments on any of the Thanet blogs who I'd call a friend... sure, I've met several of them, and some I even like. But friends? I don't think so! Having said that, I don't think I've any real enemies here either.

      The word "friend" is far too over-used these days, when in reality they're often little more than likeable aquaintances.

      Delete
  7. You're right Peter at 8:33 this is just infantile name calling and childish arguments. And by grown adults too. A shame this blog has fallen so far. A real shame.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's absolutely ridiculous! I got rid of my Facebook to get away from all this childishness, but instead find people who are old enough and intelligent enough to know better doing far worse on here.

      Delete
    2. Peter your 9:04 & 9:39,

      I thought this might have been your reason, but then you should have said so straight out, instead of trying to turn it around on me. I appreciate that you are irritated by my persistent reference to a certain person as your friend. I did this for the reason that you had taken it upon yourself to forbid the use of his name this blog. On reflection I should have put the word 'friend' in inverted commas and I accept that he is not your friend in the strict sense of the word.

      I agree with you that Facebook has devalued the word 'friend'. I have very few designated friends on Facebook, but I have met and known each and everyone of them socially for many years, some since childhood. We have never insulted each other.

      Delete
    3. It was William who suggested we don't mention his name on this blog. So presumably this makes him William's friend?

      Delete
    4. OK, OK - but it was you who said that you agreed with much of what he said and stated that you might support him in a future election.

      No - this does not make William his friend, as you appear to suggest. Neither are you his friend, and neither am I. Are we getting close to an agreement on this matter?

      Delete
    5. OK, Peter, have it your way. I was merely being polite.

      Delete
  8. I believe that SFP have put forward new proposals over Pleasurama to cabinet. They will be discussed at the next Cabinet meeting in 2 weeks time

    ReplyDelete
  9. Seems Geoff has been investigating Hamilton http://geoffreybarnesblog.wordpress.com/2013/10/29/where-do-you-live-again/

    ReplyDelete
  10. Well he didn't get very far then did he? Don't you just love Thanet's amateur Hercule Poirots. Even the great Ann Barnes has not come up with anything yet so don't hold your breath on the feeling of collars. I reckon Rick would have a far better chance of tracking down JH.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So William just what is your take on Hamilton wanting to buy a gun. Do you have an opinion? C2 Tactical is in Phoenix, Arizona a long way from Thanet.

      Delete
    2. How can one have an opinion on such flimsy information? The suggestion, explored on an earlier post, was that perhaps John Hamilton lives in the USA where it is perfectly legal to own a gun. Who knows for it was purely conjecture and could have been an entirely different John Hamilton.

      As for owning guns, I cannot say I approve of America's free and easy gun laws, but then I find ours too extreme where even Olympic shooters frequently has to train abroad. Fact of the matter is that criminals will always access guns however hard one makes it for law abiding citizens to own one.

      Delete
    3. William if you had been abused by John Hamilton on Facebook you wouldn't opine that it may have been a different John Hamilton. The truth is the profile asking about a gun was one and the same.

      However your previous at 10:35 said "he" didn't get very far. What I was wondering was who the "he" was and what was it "he didn't get far" about?

      Delete
    4. As I understand it someone who is searching for John Hamilton believes that he lives in Arizona, and that he has a gun. I would imagine that nearly everyone owns a gun in Arizona bearing in mind that they have the most liberal gun laws of any state. There are 14 John Hamiltons listed in the Arizona phone book. Should he live elsewhere in the USA then there are tens of thousands of listed John Hamiltons from which to choose.

      Alternatively the suggestion is that John Hamilton lives in UK and is seeking to import a gun from the USA. Why would he go to this trouble when it easy to buy a gun in UK if you know the right Pubs, and these are not hard to identify.

      Or maybe I'm missing the point.

      My opinion, for what it's worth, is that John Hamilton is pulling someone's leg.

      Delete
    5. You wouldn't say that if there was evidence that Tim tried to get hold of a gun!

      Delete
    6. "My opinion, for what it's worth, is that John Hamilton is pulling someone's leg." why John would he choose C2 Tactical to do this? and whose leg is he pulling as JH seems not to advertise the joke anywhere?

      I read that Geoff thinks he may have inadvertently used the wrong profile to post and it maybe he works there under his real identity. It is very strange is it not?

      Delete
    7. This sounds the most plausible explanation to me 2:04.

      I guess John Holyer and William Epps don't believe us, but it's a FACT that Hammy's IP address is US-based. How do you explain that one gents?

      Delete
    8. Steady, Peter, I never said I do not believe John Hamilton lives in the USA, just that there is no conclusive proof either way. The down side of the US residential idea is just why would an American be bothered with Thanet in general and people like Ian Driver and Barry James in particular. As for Tim Garbutt, owning a gun, if he lived in Arizona or had some large country estate in UK it would not bother me. Owning one in urban Ramsgate would almost certainly be illegal unless he could justify a shot gun to keep down rats in his overgrown garden. Mind you, decent air rifle could do that.

      As to the 'he' referred to by 12:44, I was following on from the earlier comment that Geoffrey Barnes was tracking down JH. I say again, Rick would be your best sleuth because he has the time and the expertise to do the in depth research rather than pure speculation.

      Delete
    9. Why someone based in the US is obsessed with Driver, James, Tongue, Oldfield etc is beyond me, but presumably he used to live here.

      What do we know about that Tory cllr who went to Panama?

      Delete
    10. You asking me, Peter, for not being TDC I never knew the guy? Also not sure what it has to do with a discussion about who is Hamilton though I guess it is your little dig at Tories. Can I throw in the cat murdering mayor to save you the trouble, the forger Cyril or even the perjuring Jonathan. I have left you Sandy so you can have another dig.

      Delete
    11. Not at all, I'm just wondering if it's the same bloke? Could easily have moved from Panama to the USA. But as I said, I don't know anything about him... which is why I'm asking on here whether he had any grievances against Driver and co. Anyone???

      And please don't give me that anti-Tory crap. Strange thing is that most of the red let consider me to be a Tory for supporting Gale, Sandys, etc.

      Delete
    12. As someone who has escaped to the country I can be rather more dispassionate about Thanet affairs being no longer bothered by them. I remain interested and amused though, and what a laugh all this 'Hunt the Hamilton' is turning into. Let us suppose for a moment the Barnes man is right and Hamilton is living in Arizona and about to buy a gun. What exactly are any of you going to do about it - run to the dear old biddy who is Police Commissioner perhaps. Then is she going to contact Interpol, swear out an international arrest warrant and have JH incarcerated for gun possession in Arizona which would be an offence in Thanet, but isn't there.

      Then we have snidey Pete trying to get in his little digs whilst accusing others of ruining the blogs. Incapable of keeping to a debate without, sooner or later, some anti-Tory dig or a side swipe at Moores. Now he seemingly has taken on the role of knight errant to that twit Garbutt, who seems to be on the move anyway. Just hope he stays away from my little corner of Kent though I doubt he could afford the prices round here.

      All in all, I would have to agree the blogging scene is pretty sad with quite the wrong people being championed
      by the few, who could all fit in the Red Hall several times over, that continue to contribute.

      Delete
    13. Where have I mentioned Moores you senile old idiot?

      Delete
    14. Perhaps I should state it again, as some of you old buffers obviously have short memories: I think that Thanet has two of the best MPs in the country, and they both happen to be Tory! I've also come to the defence of Cllr Latchford on here, probably one of the most right-wing cllrs in Thanet (yes please Latchford, let's repeal the gay marriage law!)... but STILL you imbeciles seem to think I'm a socialist, just because I also happen to occasionally agree with something Oldfield, Driver or Garbo says.

      Delete
    15. To be fair Allan, I haven't seen Peter mention Simon in a very long time.

      Delete
    16. PS. Al, the name is Peter, though you can just call me Sir.

      Delete
    17. Peter, this is your man:

      http://www.thisiskent.co.uk/Panama-8211-hat-8217-s-8217-ll/story-12002365-detail/story.html#axzz2j7wFVd7N

      Delete
    18. Peter, I do not think you are a socialist and I know you are a great supporter of Sir Roger. It is just that when you get into a debate with a known Tory, like Epps or Wells say, you invariably drag up some old Tory villainy from the past. No, you have not mentioned Moores in this thread, though you often do, but, surprise, surprise, I see you were actually praising his blog the other day. Well done for being so even handed.

      No need for the senile, old idiot bit, though you seem to be learning from Garbled, I am not actually that old, as we soldiers retire quite young relatively speaking and you are not so far off army retiring age yourself. Let's settle for advancing middle age shall we, or would you prefer to be leaving youth behind.

      Delete
    19. The reason I asked is because I'm wondering whether this "Panama" cllr is John Hamilton. How that can be interpretated as anti-Tory is beyond me!

      So it's ok to call someone snidey, but not senile?

      Delete
    20. William, John, and Allan having worked with several people on researching hammy there is much evidence, albeit circumstantial, that hammy has an interest in Thanet, and Ramsgate in particular due to his parents moving here in 1991. He himself has left many footprints on the internet including his move to the USA last year.
      Now I realise without someone sitting behind him as he posts any investigation has to be a sum of all the clues so in theory we could be wrong.
      What has been noticeable is the sharp drop off in postings since pressure was applied by Geoff and others.

      Delete
    21. Understand the theory, 4:21, but why exactly would someone blogging from the USA feel pressure because some people in Thanet are trying to track him down What exactly could they do if they did? Has he actually committed libel and would such a case stand up in the US? Don't think you can be extradited from the USA for calling a Thanet councillor a media hogging, chancer.

      Then there is the claim of a sharp drop off in postings. Track back through his older posts and they have always gone in fits and starts. Several close together then the odd several day break. Currently he has put up five posts in October with the most recent on the 26th, just three days ago. He has also made comments on other sites so I think you may be over estimating the power of the alleged pressure.

      Before I get attacked, I am not supporting the man, if such he is, but I just wonder where all this guesswork is taking us and why. There was a Grim Reaper appeared for a while before the 2011 council elections in a similar abrasive style to Hamilton. At the time people claimed he was an opposition politician, though seemingly unsure on which side, that he was ECR, then having a break from his own site, whilst sundry others were punted about. In the end, it was all to no avail and the Reaper picked up his scythe and disappeared as suddenly as he had arrived. Perhaps the Reaper and Hamilton are one and the same.

      Delete
    22. William, thanks for reminding me about The Margate Cat Killer. I keep meaning to send a FOI request to find out how much of his overpaid allowance he's given back.

      Delete
    23. As I said before William you do not use FB just blogging and it has certainly has dropped off. Long may that remain. Others have commented about the Thanet Reaper and maybe he is one and the same.

      What can be done about him is debatable however it is a fact that several people haven't missed his postings both on here and FB

      Delete
    24. Peter, best get on with it for it is becoming a bit historic now.

      William, not disputing what you say, but just wonder at the purpose of it all. Being perhaps more even handed, I sometimes wonder why it seems acceptable for someone to call other councillors corrupt, accuse them of snouts in troughs and sundry incompetence, all potentially criminal matters, yet another unknown is pilloried for calling someone a chancer or a media hogging clown. Seems just a bit hypocritical to me.

      Delete
    25. There's only one who refers to disabled pensioners as "a monkey" though, not that it seems to bother you too much... yet it's a completely different matter if someone says anything remotely ageist to you, John or Allan.

      Delete
    26. If only that is all he has done for example he told a lady, recently out of hospital after a mastectomy, "Piss off Dove, nobody cares what you think, you have a completely unwarranted, and certainly undeserved superiority complex for someone with a clearly out of date and laughable agenda as you do. Your a joke Dove, as are your minions."

      He knew she had been in hospital but stated "if she posts there is nothing wrong with her"

      Now I know you seldom mention Facebook but you have to be aware he doesn't just post on a blog.

      Ian does seem to be his main target but believe you me Ian isn't his only target he has attacked me on many occasions as you very well know

      Delete
    27. I do find it curious how exactly he picks his targets. At first I thought it was only right-wing NIMBYs such as Moores and Flaig that he didn't like to mention, yet he hasn't appeared remotely interested in the anti-Tim campaigning that others indulge in and I would've thought he would be a prime candidate.

      I don't mention FB much because I'm not on it anymore, so I'm not aware of what does or doesn't get posted.

      Delete
    28. Peter, you seem determined to make a fight over Hamilton yet, from what I read on here, he is hardly worth it. His reference to a 'monkey' was in the context of the organ grinder and his monkey referring to Ian Driver with, at that time, Christine Tongue always at his side. I certainly don't support Christine's politics but I would never resort to referring to her disability and I am not sure JH was either.

      You well know that a certain anon regularly throws ageist comments at me. It is not polite, but it is hardly costing me any sleep. I am retired and, as such, I have tried to put a bit back into the community through school governorships, cadets, regimental associations, charities and my local council. It tends to be like that because most people of working age simply do not have the time. Should age be something that debars one from public office or becomes a label affixed to you as though it implies inability?

      Barry, I hear what you say, but my point remains, do two wrongs make a right. Decent people I know who are trying to do something for the community have been accused of corruption or having their snouts in the trough. Not all councillors, if any, are bent, but listen to Driver and they are all awaiting incarceration.

      I have said it before, but it is worth repeating, I do not like Hamilton's language and some of his comments are unacceptable in a so called civilised society. Equally I abhor blanket allegations of corruption and criminality. Neither should be tolerated.

      Delete
    29. And I abhor attacking a lady just out of hospital.

      What is more galling is he doesn't even live in the UK and he has trolled many other FB sites including armed forces sites.
      As people say its not what he says but how he says it. One gentleman too my knowledge has found his attacks difficult to take due to depression. does hammy stop attacking him? what do you think knowing his track record.

      Delete
    30. Barry, accept all you say, but do you not think it depressing when people give of their time to take public office, do their best to serve their communities and then have a loud mouth calling them corrupt for his own political ends. I am afraid you see Driver through rose tinted spectacles.

      Elsewhere I see Tim Garbutt making something of a joke of cancer with his reference on his blog to the Chemo Bus Tour. Peter seems to think that OK from an exchange he had on this very thread and, apart from an anon on here, only ECR has criticised that which, in my view, is as tasteless as anything Hamilton may have said.

      Then the question of Hamilton not even being in this country. You do not know that as a fact and it was just three Fridays back that, on the strength of a satirical article by Smudger, people on these blogs were claiming he was a local politician. Truth is, none of us know, but that does not make some of his remarks anymore acceptable.

      Peter and others have called the constant references to Tim Garbutt boring. Do you not think the 'Hunt the Hamilton' campaign is going the same way?

      Delete
    31. William "hunt the hammy" will continue but whether reported on Thanetonline is irrelevent.

      I'm afraid you have me pegged wrong when it comes to talking about Ian, because I choose not to react like you do just means I talk to him face to face or on the phone not use a blog to criticize him.

      when I look at many cllrs in TDC I don't see many of them "rocking the boat" in fact I have spoken to many who have emailed their cllr and not even had the courtesy of even an acknowledgment.

      Delete
    32. If people hadn't reposted Tim's blog comment onto here then none of us would even know about it (apart from his regular followers such as Epps and Holyer who seem to avidly read everything he posts of course). That's why I said it was boring, because I didn't want another stupid debate.

      As for comparing your obsession with Garbo to Hammy, there's no comparison. One posts wild conspiracy theories but otherwise keeps himself to himself, whilst the other picks on vulnerable people behind an alias (and I don't accept that Garbo posts on here anonymously, it could just as easily being a troll reposting his comments from twitter just to wind you up).

      Delete
    33. Talking of Ian Driver...

      http://www.keithtaylormep.org.uk/2013/10/28/metropolitan-police-accused-of-spying-on-green-party-councillor/

      Delete
    34. Maybe Hammy is Timmy?

      Delete
    35. Peter,

      You are probably wondering why I have not replied to your persistent references to me.

      Delete
    36. I certainly find it offensive to be referred to as a monkey, and also as a hag and a crone! See this month's Thanet Watch for what we make of trolls of all kinds.
      Christine
      Thanet Watch

      And sorry to post as anonymous - I don't seem able to do anything else on my system

      Delete
    37. Peter, an anonymous used the Chemo Bus Tour comment on ECR's site within a short time of it appearing on Garbutt's blog, from the times indicated, and another anon referred to it on here. You have no way of knowing whether some of these anonymous comments are by Tim himself or not and, it is not without significance that he never comes on himself to deny it.

      As for the Ian Driver bit, I loved the Green MEP's comment about a lawfully elected Green councillor. They seem to have conveniently forgotten that Driver was elected as a Labour councillor, is now on his fourth party or group since then, and has never been elected as a Green anything.

      All in all, people on here seem to have some very selective values whereby one unpleasant person is really unpleasant, but other unpleasant persons are OK. Don't think I shall be commenting again, leastways not until we can have an interesting discussion about something real rather than rhinestone gun toting cowboys or spied on Green councillors.

      Wonder how much time and public money is wasted on FOI requests.

      Delete
    38. John, no.

      Christine, thank you, looking forward to reading it.

      William, bye.

      Delete
    39. Peter,

      OK - but here is some advice. When you are out and go to the toilet you will see a sign that says "Gentlemen": pay no attention to it. Go straight in.

      Delete
    40. Checksfield is just another boring fart like Holyer, Epps and Mallinson. He was one of my original three stooges who has never made a useful comment about anything. What are your views Checksfield on TDC corruption, 0% salaries, the missing monitors, the Thor pollution - nothing, thought not. Just another waste of space.

      Poor old Eppsy still trying to justify his existence. Resign and let someone capable take over.

      Delete
    41. TDC corruption = I'm sure there's the odd bad apple, but I suspect it's more incompetence (if you had proof of corruption then I'm sure you'd show us!).

      0 % salaries = That's an oxymoron!

      Missing monitors - Where? The ones on stage at The Winter Gardens are still there as far as I know.

      Thor pollution = I've never really studied the Norse Gods, so I've no idea what he did.

      Now Mr Interesting, what's your opinion on women over 50 getting their kit off, the US singles by The Dave Clark Five, and the change of route of The North Downs Way near Chartham Hatch?

      Delete
    42. John, I'm afraid that's not really my scene. Maybe Solo Gays will take up your offer of meeting you in the toilets though?

      Delete
    43. It's nice to know I'm missed :)

      The list of people I am supposed to be grows daily! For the record, I comment on the posts of liars, bullshitters, clowns, nimbys scaremongers and people who have done so much damage to Thanet.

      It's a little rich to whine about me commenting on dive "after an operation" when I didn;t know she's had one, but TBF, the comment is equally accurate hospital visit or otherwise. Cheggers seems to have turned into a bit of a Sun leader writer, seeking to find offence where none exists, much like James. More amusing than anything else, as is him trying to set himself up as having to meet any and everyone before they are allowed to have an opinion about anything.

      Clearly, as my comments are aimed at the usual suspects listed above, then the likes of Driver and James will feature heavily, as they are prone to post laughable, inaccurate, baseless bullshit more than most, and try to pass it off as true.

      As for volume of posts, I actually have a busy life creating wealth in and for Thanet. unlike the likes of James who creates nothing and contributes less, much like the rest of the seriously discredited FORs, and those who lie to the electorate such as Driver, blogging and FB is a passtime, and only a small fraction of my time on either is devoted to dealing with the peons here.

      Delete
    44. "Sun leader writer"? I was aiming for page 3 photographer, but I guess that's close!

      Delete
    45. "page 3 photographer"

      HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA That's like a talentless council painter wishing he was in line to to paint the Sisine chapel!

      I think the the gulf in talent between a page 3 photographer, and your home snaps (at best) is even greater than the gulf between what Driver claimed to represent to get elected, and what he actually had in store for the electorate he lied to to obviously.

      Dream on cheggers ;)

      Delete
    46. Peter, really - your comeback was infantile; though to be fair to you probably did not understand my jibe.
      Also you should not lash out out Solo Gays bearing in mind that you have churlishly thrown his apology back in his face.

      Now, Peter, shock me and say something intelligent.

      Delete
    47. I tend to save my intelligent comments for those that understand them. It would be meaningless to you.

      Delete
    48. "when I didn;t know she's had one" liar Hamilton but then you then state "the comment is equally accurate hospital visit or otherwise" so why mention it anyway as you clearly wouldn't have cared anyway.
      " I actually have a busy life creating wealth in and for Thanet" how do you manage that from Arizona Paul?

      Explain the FB post asking about membership of the gun range then? or do your normal trick and ignore it

      Delete
    49. Really cheggers? I suggest you start using some, I have certainly yet to see you make an intelligent remark anywhere on any subject to anyone.

      Delete
    50. anon 9:39 work it out it isn't rocket science

      Delete
    51. Nor is it photography... I don't understand it either!

      Delete
    52. Peter,

      I always find your self regard amusing. Anyone who told you to be yourself couldn't have given you worse advice.

      Delete
    53. I think someone gave him worse advice Mr Holyer, someone must have said to him at some point "you're a failed bouncer, why not try photography"

      Delete
    54. If you're so smart Hammy, perhaps you can explain why you're being called Paul?

      Delete
  11. Talking of clowns, have you seen the latest utterly tasteless post on Tim Garbutt's site about the Chemo Bus Tour. I would strongly recommended this sick individual makes a visit to the Viking Day unit at QEQM and makes his unkind comments there. Does he really think people with cancer want to read the rubbish he comes out with.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I care, Peter, along I would think with everyone under going treatment for cancer. It is very insensitive to joke about or even in support of some perceived campaign. I would have expected better of you. Even ECR has called for no more stuff on cancer on his site.

      Delete
    2. So ECR doesn't want it mentioned on his blog so you mention it here instead. DUH!!!

      Delete
    3. Peter, I sincerely hope you never get cancer because I would not wish that on anybody, but, if you do, you might then understand the insensitive nature of a poor taste comment like the Chemo Bus Tour. That was the comment ECR rightly objected to, not people finding it out of order.

      Delete
    4. No chance, I drink plenty of tap water!

      Delete
    5. Still being flippant, Peter, which is not nice. It is not a subject to joke about.

      Delete
    6. This comment has been removed by the author.

      Delete
  12. It's staring you right in the face, yet none of you can see it.

    John Hamilton = Ian Driver

    and

    The Anonymous Anti-Tim comments come from Tim himself!

    Both are eager for publicity at any cost.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Interesting observation, 2:07, and not without a certain merit. For a long time we had Worrow posting anonymously in support of his one trick campaign so why not these two attention seekers. Ian Driver even said himself that Hamilton is good publicity.

      Delete
    2. Just like Moores posts anonymous anti-Scobie-and-Hibbert comments on his own blog.

      Delete
    3. As one who has posted anti-Hibbert posts, mainly connected with the fact that the good councillor is never seen in Westgate, let me confirm here and now that I am not Moores. I actually supported UKIP last time and am very disappointed that even that duly elected representative for Westgate seems to hide away in Ramsgate.

      Have not seen any anti-Scobie comments on Thanet Life amongst the anonymous contributors for some time. Thanet Life is concerned with Westgate and Thanet North whereas Will Scobie is now concentrating his efforts in Thanet South.

      Delete
    4. Tim has now totally flipped folks - try trotting along to the Winterstoke Crescent shelter this evening. Someone is sure to oblige.

      Delete
    5. Tim who? Is that Solo Gays?

      Delete
    6. Not sure Solo Gays uses that kind of language, Peter. He even apologised for and deleted his reference to 'bum' recently.

      Delete
  13. Has Geoff's blog disappeared?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. http://geoffreybarnesblog.wordpress.com/2013/10/29/where-do-you-live-again/

      Delete
  14. Well I looked at Geoff Barnes blog, Barry, but where exactly is the evidence? It is just more conjecture which seems to be the forte in Thanet for most things. Then we have this suggestion that Hamilton has cut back and suddenly he is springing up everywhere on their are three new postings on his blog site. Looks like he really took fright at being tracked down by the Thanet 'heavies.'

    Why cannot people deal in realities. Nobody knows who John Hamilton is and all these theories by Geoffrey Barnes are just that, baseless theories. Think about it, a month or so ago Louise Oldfield reported JH to Anne Barnes yet where as that gone despite having the resources of one of UK's largest police forces to call on. Sorry, forgot for a moment, Kent Police were probably too busy helping the Met keep taps on Ian Driver - you really couldn't make it up with some of the clowns we have in Thanet.

    ReplyDelete
  15. In the last comment 'on their' should read 'and there' so apologise for that.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. William would you publish all your evidence so you tip your hand to the person you are trying to unmask?

      Clues have been given so people who want to do their own research can do so. If that doesn't interest you then so be it.

      Needless to say Hamilton has been active on many sites since at least 2010 and under many different profiles. If he were honest then he wouldn't need to disguise himself!!

      Delete
    2. Sorry, William, never realised this had reached MI5 standards of under cover sleuth work. Whatever, it does not change the fact that less than a month ago several of the same people now claiming Hamilton is in Arizona, were proclaiming he was a local politician on the strength of a sentence in a satirical article by Smudger in the Gazette. Rather smacks of clutching at straws.

      On the question of Hamilton's honesty or otherwise, are you saying that all those who use a pseudonym or are not well known to us are therefore dishonest? People like One O'clock Rob, or Bemused of Birchington or Lyndon T Palmer spring to mind and then there are others that pop up like Ren Wood, Farnie Barnard, Allan Mallinson and even John Holyer. Do you know who they are? In fact, who is William Watkins? What about the anonymous contributors, some of whom can be extremely insulting?

      I am not disinterested, in fact I find other people's obsession with hunting down Hamilton fascinating. I simply wonder who or what he will be next week.

      Delete
    3. William don't you mean CIA or FBI I didn't know MI5 operated in the USA

      Delete
    4. Smartarse - the investigators, for lack of a more hilarious description, are in Thanet. The subject might, and it is a very big might, be in the US.

      Delete
    5. Anon 2:42, I see someone has already beaten me to it with a valid response, but, for your further education, MI5 could operate wherever necessary in defence of British interests. That said, my point was to liken the investigation to a secret service style, hence the use of that word, and not to imply that MI5 were actually engaged in trying to find Hamilton. I think they have far better things to do.

      Delete
    6. Have you considered just how parochial you are. Paul the hamster doesn't just infest Thanet blogs you know. Using his many "nom de FB" he has a far wider reach than just this corner of Kent.
      At least check out the facts before you speak!

      Delete
    7. Where can I see these "facts" that you speak of? And where's your "proof" that his name is Paul?

      Delete
    8. How quaint someone in Thanet describing somebody else as parochial. Where exactly have you been, 4:25, what have you done and what was the pinnacle of your success? All kinds of people have a far wider reach on FB and others play World Of Warcraft, but does that make them less parochial in consequence?

      Delete
    9. Careful, Anon 4:30, for the 'investigators' are not prepared to disclose their hand lest JH rumbles them. Suggest you have a quiet chat in private when you spot one. They are easily recognisable with trilby hats with turned down rims, turned up raincoat collars and the move from shadow to shadow.

      Delete
    10. William I think anon was making a point albeit badly. There are several people who have been collecting evidence across the internet with the intention of "stopping" a Troll from pushing his brand of vitriol. It has nothing to do with Thanet Blogs and I think what was meant is blinkered not parochial.
      hammy trolls FB pages attacking all and sundry because he gets his thrills from doing so and in the process people get hurt, and he doesn't care one jot as shown yesterday by his comments concerning Clare.
      William no one accuses you of not caring about your role of Councillor I'm sure you have done a great job however you get upset by what you see Ian Driver getting up to, rightly or wrongly, and when hammy posts about him being a "media whore" that has resonance with you. hammy doesn't actually care about Ian, me, Clare and the others he attacks he gets his thrills from how they and others react. Next week, next month he will be attacking someone else with the same disparaging remarks and we will be so last year.
      Having discussed him with several people who have been on the receiving end of his attacks all we want is for him to remove his blog and leave Thanet alone.
      anon 4:30 go do your own research and stop being lazy

      Delete
    11. In other words Barry you have no proof!

      Delete
    12. anon I said go do your own research not make silly remarks.

      Delete
    13. I've done that. As I stated yesterday, John Hamilton is Ian Driver.

      Delete
    14. Barry, another insidious troll who insults all who challenge him, pushes out repetitive unsubstantiated comments about aquifers, monitors, corruption, arrests and fines, has recently been exposed with a substantial amount of evidence. Are any of the Hammy Hunters interested, no not in the slightest with even Peter C refuting the irrefutable. Michael knows who this one is and regularly deletes his 0% rants when he spots them, but he does not have time to moderate all such comments. This person has suggested that I am senile, useless, obtaining my allowance under false pretences, covering up criminal acts and general having the life of Riley at public expense.

      OK, I am thick skinned and recognise the type as simply getting his kicks by maligning others, precisely what you accuse Hamilton of, yet nobody seems particularly bothered. That said, several other councillors, something Michael complains of, have stopped engaging with the public on these sites because such trolls. That damages democracy and, in my book, is just as bad as anything you may perceive Hamilton doing.

      Delete
    15. William as you believe one of the anon is garbled and any electoral search will tell you where he lives drop him a line and tell him to desist

      Delete
    16. Barry, glad I'm not the only one who isn't totally convinced that it's Garbo.

      Delete
    17. Barry,

      I have emailed Tim Garbutt a couple of times along the lines that you suggest. That was a few weeks ago. He has not replied.

      OK, Peter, I'll save you the effort - here you go - Tim does not consider my accusations worth a reply, dah de dah de dah.

      Delete
    18. To be fair, if someone kept accusing anonymous commentators of being me then I'd probably dismiss his messages as being from a local nutter too. Anyway, he's probably grateful of the publicity. I'm sure I'm not the only one who'd barely heard of him until you started going on about him.

      Delete
    19. Peter,

      It appears that I have advanced your knowledge, which is no mean feat.

      I cannot follow the logic of your comments; but whatever you are trying to say you should not describe yourself as a local nutter, no matter what the others say.

      Delete
    20. There is a lot more evidence to pin Garbled as the aquifer man than all this nonsense about John Hamilton being Clint Eastwood, but you silly sods suit yourself. You believe what you want to believe and, in Peter's case, the opposite of whoever you are debating with at the time.

      Delete
    21. Thanks Eppy.

      Delete
    22. John, have you tried inviting him to meet you in the men's toilets? I know it didn't work with me, but you never know your luck.

      Delete
    23. Nice try, 7:57, but the aquifer man usually calls me Eppsy, not Eppy, and I have no idea what I have done to justify your thanks.

      See ECR is giving you a rough time, Peter, so what have you done to ruffle his feathers.

      Delete
    24. I'm not sure you old perv, perhaps it's because I reminded it (I won't say "him" as it would infer that ECR is male) about how the Thanet heavies put the frighteners on him and forced him to close his blog down.

      Delete
    25. Less of the perv, Peter, cannot see I have done anything to justify that title. Who were the Thanet heavies, by the way?

      Delete
    26. Yet you seem to think that's ok for people to call me "Pervy Pete" elsewhere.

      Ask ECR who the heavies were. They were enough to scare him off blogging for a long time.

      Delete
    27. Oh, Peter, Peter - you have used that infantile calumny before. You are so predictable, firing from the hip and missing. You would be out of your depth in a puddle.

      Delete
    28. Peter, over the several years I have been following the Thanet blogs, some people have referred to you as 'Pervy Pete' but I think mainly in jest arising out of what you do in the photographic world. I simply asked why attach the label to me for I do not take nude photos of ladies or visit Winterstoke Crescent shelter at night. I am a happily married straight elderly bloke, boring and ordinary perhaps, but not in any way deviant. The bit on ECR about you adding the lovely architect to your gallery was funny in the context it was written. I did not think the anon was being particularly offensive.

      Not really bothered about the heavies, simply wondered if they were some right wing establishment lot or the tattoo brigade. Perhaps even, seeing your threats to Hamilton, the relatives of your lovely ladies.

      Delete
    29. I don't even consider myself a naturist these days (calling someone who takes their clothes off half a dozen times a year a naturist is a bit like calling someone who writes half a dozen letters a year a writer).

      I'm not quite sure I'd call certain disgraced local Tory cllrs a right wing establishment in the sense that you're implying, but I you don't have to be Sherlock Holmes to guess where the pressure on ECR came from!

      Delete
    30. Peter, I think those that used the 'pervy' handle were more referring to your work and blog site than any stripping off by your good self. I recall you once supported Botany Bay being a naturists beach, but would not have thought of you as a regular practitioner yourself, more a cycling photographer with a taste for sixties/seventies music.

      Delete
  16. Someone you Williams have overlooked, and who has been around a lot longer than John Hamilton, is Eastcliff Richard. Who exactly is he and why no witch hunt to reveal his true identity? Could it be because he is clearly left of centre and spends his time knocking TDC and councillors in general, that he is somehow more acceptable than an obvious right winger.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's because most of us know who ECR really is. I certainly do, and have met that person several times. ECR was also Lucy of course.

      Delete
    2. So long as you know him Pete that's all that matters.

      Delete
    3. Number 1 stooge knows who ECR is, but has no view on Thor pollution or 0% salaries. What a waste blog space he is with his silly comments.

      Delete
    4. I'm waiting for you to explain this "0% salaries" Mr interesting, because I'm sure I'm not the only one who doesn't get it.

      And your thoughts on the North Downs Way footpath diversion at Chartham Hatch? Or are you one of those local in-breds with the "island" mentality who doesn't care about outside Thanet?

      Delete
    5. Peter, I think you might be into an exchange with Tim so best of luck. For your information though, the 0% salaries relates to a few years back when TDC froze council workers salaries one year, but still allegedly gave a rise to a couple of the more senior council officers. Michael did an historic post on the subject and Tim refers to it on several of his suggesting it was some kind of fraud for which your favourite councillor should be arrested. Michael often deletes these 0% things when he sees them knowing the source.

      Delete
    6. Sounds a bit iffy to me (if it's true)...

      Delete
    7. Peter, for once this was something all in the open and a matter of public record yet chummy goes on flogging it forever. Anyway, I was only trying to be helpful and explaining the 0% as I understand it, since you asked. Suit yourself what you belief for it is of no consequence now.

      Delete
    8. Pete,

      If you never heard about it then then it follows that it never happend.

      Delete
    9. I didn't say I haven't heard of it, merely that I don't entirely understand it. Still, I look forward to Tim or Steve or Rick or Dick or whoever posting proof.

      I recall anonymous comments on the blogs 2 or 3 years back claiming that Sandy Ezekiel is a crook, and most people dismissed those comments as nonsense too. So never say never.

      Delete
    10. This comment has been removed by the author.

      Delete
    11. That's when the local heavies put the frighteners on ECR and closed his blog down, highly amusing!

      Delete
    12. That's not something he likes being reminded about 7:45.

      Delete
  17. Replies
    1. Spelling, anon, but you seem to have no problem with the 'f' word. Is that the extent of your vocabulary?

      Delete
  18. My G*d, this blog is boring. I can't believe the amount of inane drivel being posted. Presumably, Cheggers has nothing to do because it's too cold for his stable to get their kit off.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So what do you think you have contributed, 5:49? Hardly uplifting prose is it and, if you are so bored, why not pop over to Cheggers site to look at those that did get their kit off before the weather changed.

      Delete
    2. It depends who you are 5:49... if you're a competing photographer then I'm very busy indeed, but if you're the taxman then you're right that things are quiet! ; )

      Delete
    3. wow delete the above please

      Delete
    4. Please delete above comments they are not nice.

      Delete

Comments, since I started writing this blog in 2007 the way the internet works has changed a lot, comments and dialogue here were once viable in an open and anonymous sense. Now if you comment here I will only allow the comment if it seems to make sense and be related to what the post is about. I link the majority of my posts to the main local Facebook groups and to my Facebook account, “Michael Child” I guess the main Ramsgate Facebook group is We Love Ramsgate. For the most part the comments and dialogue related to the posts here goes on there. As for the rest of it, well this blog handles images better than Facebook, which is why I don’t post directly to my Facebook account, although if I take a lot of photos I am so lazy that I paste them directly from my camera card to my bookshop website and put a link on this blog.