The last few trials I have observed at in the North of Scotland virtually all the riders thanked the observer on their last lap - those that didn't it was clear it was a slipup rather than on purpose - many riders come up to you to laugh about how well - or not they get on in the pits at the end of the day.

No-one likes observing on a cold wet & miserable day unless the raport with the competitors makes the day bearable.

Observing an interesting/challenging section on a hot and sunny day on a hillside in the North of Scotland is bearable - JUST!

As a rider (debatable?) I ALWAYS chat to and thank the observer as do all my riding partners - the majority of observers are riders themselves and are giving up their day to watch others compete.

You cannot tar all competitors with the same brush.

I'm not taring all with the same brush as some of the scots did make a point of thanking my brother, i apologise if i've offended you in anyway. I to always thank observers, be it in my own centre or on my travels, cos like you said they are giving up there spare time to help us.

I started this thread on another part of the forum and thought it had been deleted. Obviously it had been moved to the correct place. DOH!

In between the bitching and arguing I think I may be enlightened.

Best to get permission otherwise bring trials riders/riding, into disrepute.

Gordon