We use this system as it's the only 100% spam free method.

A couple of years ago the spam levels got so bad that it was taking 5 of us several hours a day each to clear the spam accounts.

Since removing self registration, we have not had a single spam post.

This system works, and isn't it much nicer dealing with an actual human being. 

This does mean that you have to wait untill I check my emails before I can create your account.
So if you haven't had a reply to your account request within 20 nano seconds - just wait a bit longer. I try and check several times a day.

The worst day to ask for a request is usually saturday - that's my tech free day
But I will usually sign you up sunday morning.

Curious Aardvark