Hmm and the URL contains "&p=somenumber" right?

The url is correct.
The routine has ended with the echo "No post id in URL" ,
and the routine doesn't create a new thread ....

Not quite sure what you mean.. there's no URL? I mean the address in the browser, not the contents of the page itself.

Yes, sorry, I gathered that after I'd written the message and went and had another look.

as attached so I don't get it wrong - again :o

Try this version: http://pastebin.com/raw/anqMsD7u

That version returns :

Fatal error: Cannot pass parameter 1 by reference in C:\xampp\htdocs\poetsl\testingthread.php on line 20.

Line 20, according to my check, is " $foruminfo = fetch_foruminfo(260); "

..and 260 exists as the destination Forum.

Sorry, I'll have to log off now - but many thanks for your support and help - much appreciated. Even if things are a little frustrating ....

warmly

Geoff