The move has been long anticipated by forum users, as a number of anonymous posters in particular had persisted in introducing "off topic" threads and in some cases using abusive language.

The problem is not a new one, and since the early days of the internet, has been referred to as "Trolling". Trolls are traditionally unpleasant creatures who lurk under bridges and wait to harass innocent passers by - the forum dwelling variety is not dissimilar.

From next week, anonymous posting will no longer be possible on the BPCA forum, with users being required to log in before contributing. This will not affect readers who prefer to read without joining the discussion, who will be able to browse as normal.

The forum can be found at: http://www.pestcontrolportal.com/services/forum/