Well I certainly seem to have started a debate which is surely healthy. Incidentally , the definition of a clique is "a small exclusive group" which judging by SharonF's original contribution certainly justifies my use of the word. Also, if you read Angiem's original reply, you will know why I started this topic - I too came across people who said that they didn't dare join this forum for fear of offending/getting in the way of, the regulars.
But, Eggy's, martinW's and other's comments absolutely support the view that not everyone wears the same blinkers and that being so, I may end up being a forum regular myself.
Once again, yammas to you all.