It’s been emotional..

So, years and years on this forum and indeed its predecessor. Often wondering why these days. I think I’ve done what was worth it. I can feel myself sounding a bit repetitive so not sure there is more to add. Now feeling an increasing “vibe” of less friendly. The very best wishes to all on here for the future and I will see many of you around the grounds. All the best, Will.

Will Hewland said:

So, years and years on this forum and indeed its predecessor. Often wondering why these days. I think I’ve done what was worth it. I can feel myself sounding a bit repetitive so not sure there is more to add. Now feeling an increasing “vibe” of less friendly. The very best wishes to all on here for the future and I will see many of you around the grounds. All the best, Will.

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Hi Will,

Having only joined the forum around a month ago as a newbie to shooting, I've often seen your name pop up in most discussions. You wished me good luck in starting off when I introduced myself and I have since read your replies and input to discussions with great interest. Your replies ooze knowledge and a passion to share it humbly.

Of course I can't speak for how the forum used to be and has changed to a less friendly vibe as you mention, as a beginner to the sport who is only just finding familiarity with the forum, I personally would find it a great shame to have you leave.

A mere supporter.

I’m not running off in a stroppy huff, so folk can message me if needed etc. But I’m semi retired from my main job and will likely be starting at a very reputable shooting ground in the near future part time, so also don’t want to get into anything controversial online.

Will Hewland said:

I’m not running off in a stroppy huff, so folk can message me if needed etc. But I’m semi retired from my main job and will likely be starting at a very reputable shooting ground in the near future part time, so also don’t want to get into anything controversial online.

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I wish you all the best in your part time post, doing something that I believe you love doing. Stay safe and best wishes, Westley.

Will. I understand completely with what you say about "not wanting to get into anything controversial online." It usually doesn't do anyone any favors. Disagreeing with the wrong people (even if their opinions are proved to be wrong) can unfortunately get you banned from some of the "other" shotgun forums.
Fortunately, not this one. Good luck with your future endeavors.

Will Hewland said:

So, years and years on this forum and indeed its predecessor. Often wondering why these days. I think I’ve done what was worth it. I can feel myself sounding a bit repetitive so not sure there is more to add. Now feeling an increasing “vibe” of less friendly. The very best wishes to all on here for the future and I will see many of you around the grounds. All the best, Will.

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What a shame you're going. I really enjoy your shoot reports and general input.

I like this board and wish it gained more users as I despise facebook but you're right. It has changed recently. I never thought I'd need to put someone on ignore until last week but now I have.

You'll no doubt remember the infamous bust ups with a certain fiocchi fan! There was also a very angry scotsman at one point as well. Some people just seem to thrive on conflict or have ego's they just can't contain.

It's a real shame to see you go Will.

PM.

Sorry you are going Will, I always respected your considerable contribution to this site. It won’t be the same without you.
Good luck in your new venture.

Shame to see you go. The world needs knowledgeable people with a sense of humour, toooo many people with a stick up their arse. I'm betting if we all met in person we'd get along and have a laugh. The world is a fractious old place at the moment.

Sorry to hear this, it will be a shame.
At one point I'd post something without thinking too much about how it would be read or interpreted. I think carefully now. The number of posts I've started and not hit the post reply button is daft.
Good luck with the new venture.

If Will isn’t posting on the site who will? Haven’t used the site much but always lurked in the background

Rosey said:

If Will isn’t posting on the site who will? Haven’t used the site much but always lurked in the background

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Time to step up Rosie

Good luck Will, see you at Barbury, EJC etc.

Sorry to hear this, I read most things on this forum, you've very knowledgeable with a wealth of experience I always value what you write, as I do most comments from others. Hope the new venture goes well.

Best of luck for the future, Will but it’s much to the forums loss. I haven’t been here long but I really like and appreciate your input.

Good luck in your new venture sir . I always found that people from an engineering / technical background make excellent instructors as they tend to be process led to the end result , rather than all the Mystic Meg approach . If I ever bump into you there’s a pint waiting .

Very sorry to read this, and I personally hope you'll be back on a regular basis. I enjoyed your contributions which I have always considered "fair and balanced" (as opposed to the alleged news-outlet once sporting that monniker) and made me laugh on many occasions. I do think we can all take note of (one of) your reasons to move on and ensure a better atmosphere, so thanks for the parting wisdom - I do hope our paths will cross someday. And thanks for your brief stint on youtube "at the request of one" All the best, Luke.

Will Hewland said:

So, years and years on this forum and indeed its predecessor. Often wondering why these days. I think I’ve done what was worth it. I can feel myself sounding a bit repetitive so not sure there is more to add. Now feeling an increasing “vibe” of less friendly. The very best wishes to all on here for the future and I will see many of you around the grounds. All the best,

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Good luck Will in your next adventure!!
Certainly one of the most knowledgeable on here!!

All the best in your future endeavours Will, thank you for your input & friendship in my clay journey.
Sure to bump in to you around.
Take care.

Think people would rather you stay and impart your years of knowledge. But the best of luck to in your new role and hope you can ignore the anoying stuff you see on here.

MrH, am another who will miss your input, all the very best

Sorry to see you go Will.
You have always been the voice of reason on here and given good advice.

When I occasionally used to bump into you when I shot Gatton Bottom, you were always very friendly and helpful

Good luck for the future