Sorry this is anonymous, but just wanted to say what a shame for us all it is that John has decided to close D-spot.

I had always used other retail outlets until recently, and after one trip to D-spot had vowed to purchase all my kit from there in future unless I really wanted something he didn't stock.

The reason? Johns overwhelming enthusiasm for the sport, and welcoming attitude to a beginner like myself.

Unfortunately this is in sharp contrast to some other shops in the area in my experience (but not all), but I still feel it is easy to be intimidated in certain other retailers if you are not an 'expert!'

Thanks for all the free advice John, good luck in whatever you choose to do.

Exactly my feelings.



John is one of the good guy's.



I only found his shop in the last 12 months when I returned to sailing at WK, and decided to try some Starboard kit, but the advice and service have been first class - you can't beat advice from someone who is actually using the kit, he is honest and never spins you the bullsh*t which abounds in the windsurfing world.



Good luck John -(and don't be afraid to change your mind about closing the shop)

edited by: PeterCee, Nov 22, 2004 - 09:34 AM

Id just like to echo the comments here,



John was the real deal when it came to selling a service as well as a product. Many a time I witnessed sailors trying to spend money and John convincing them that all was not lost with their current set up and passing on genuine advice. All too often in the past Ive witnessed shops go in for the kill, leaving the purchaser light on cash and walking away with kit that was either unsuitable or not needed.



John had (has) the ability to advise the novice, guide the intermediate, listen to the pro and all would benefit from his time. He had the capacity to teach somebody getting on a board for the first time, whilst pulling one handed Spocks half an hour later, after a wicked planing forward. Its thats kind of all round ability that the sport needs. He was as good in the waves as people who only sail waves whilst still being able to enjoy flat water blasting and freestyle. That ability made spending money in his shop not only enjoyable but you knew the advice you were getting was from somebody who could cut it on the water.



West Kirby and the Wirral will be all the poorer for his decision to stop trading.

WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?????!!!!!!!!!!! The only shop I actually enjoyed going in and the best asset to WK and the God of the water is closing up????????!!!!! Anyone know why?!!!!???!!!!!!

OUR FRIEND JOHNATHON WILL BE MISSED DEARLY. WE LOVE THOU JOHN AND SALUTE YOU !!!

TO THE SUPER SAILER THAT IS KNOWN AS WINDY JONNY

It's ok folks, he's not dead or anything!!!! Good luck to the man and all but no need for a weeping wailing and gnashing of teeth!