The BJO has prospered for the past seven years because of the editorial leadership of Professor John Forrester. He brought intellectual vigour and honesty as well as creativity to this task. The journal is now both a highly regarded scientific publication as well as a thought provoking and interesting journal to peruse. During the tenure of John Forrester theBJO's impact factor has increased, the quality of its scientific papers was outstanding, and the appearance and readability of the journal were first class. Regrettably, we must now thank Professor Forrester for his service and wish him all the best in his new endeavours as he steps down from the position of editor.

I am proud to have been appointed John Forrester's successor although I realise it will be difficult to match his successes. I have no intentions of reinventing …