On Thu, 27 Nov 2014 13:10:29 -0000, just as I was about to take a
herb, "gareth" disturbed my reverie and
wrote:

..and then, when it became apparent to you that your remarks had given
great offence why did you not apologise for them if they were just banter?

If you were offended, that is your problem and your issue.
--
Cheers,

DrT

** You've never known happiness until you're married;
** but by then it is too late.