I'm a newbie (here, anyway) but I'm the same online as I am in life, happy to jump in and talk the hind leg off a donkey with anyone!

I see your point though, Chris. Not everyone is like me and some forums (and/or posters! ) can seem a bit scary at first glance. I think a separate section would make that 'them' and 'us' thing worse though.

My suggestion to any newbies that feel like that is to read and lurk till you get the feel of the place. By the time you've done that a while you'll feel like you know everyone and something will soon have you pressing reply!

I'll be passing this addy on to my college mates so you may have some other new buds soon