I quite like the fact the forum isn't over run with people chit chatting about crap,that's for twitter and Facebook. I personally use the forum to see what events are going on and look for technical answers.
The numbers have dwindled slightly but I also think that it's been diluted into too many local regions allowing small clubs to get established. :-(
Personally, I like them. Can't be any worse than treating your car like an advertising board and putting silly stickers, oops sorry, DECALS all over the fine paintwork.