Ok I give up, why can't I post in Mumsnet local?

[Pixel]

It tells me that I need a local name, fair enough, except every single name I've put in it rejects with no reason given why. I thought at first I'd just picked names that had already been used but no matter how imaginative I get I'm still rejected. I've been trying to contact someone as they are looking for a cleaner and my mum would be very interested in the job but other people are posting about it now so I've probably missed the boat there. I did try messaging the poster which it seems to allow under my normal name, but I've no idea if it went through.
What is the reason it won't let me put in a local name? Is there something else I'm supposed to have done first? .

Hi Pixel,

It sounds as though you are doing all of the right things. How strange, we will ask Tech to take a look.

Apologies.

Hi, I did try to reply yesterday to say thanks but then I lost my connection. I'm not doing very well am I?
I've just tried again to enter a name but it still won't work. Odd that no one else seems to be having this problem, so frustrating!

Any ideas?

Hello pixel. So sorry you're having such a frustrating time.

Can you tell us exactly what message you're seeing about a local nickname?

While you are here I cannot get on my Mumsnet local, despite trying once a week for it seems like countless weeks.
Am I doing something wrong too?

Glad I'm not the only one!

Hi Helen. Well I put in a name (have tried different ones, all get the same message) and in red underneath I get 'Sorry, firefly cannot be used. Please choose a different local nickname.' With whichever name obviously.
Thanks

Rats! Just realised I won't be able to use that name now as it sort of defeats the object! .

! !

OK, it does sound as though the nicknames you're choosing aren't being allowed because they're already taken.

It has to be said that most 'obvious' names will have been taken already, given the size of Mumsnet's membership now.

If you're not bothered about anyone on Local connecting you with Pixel from the main boards, you could try a name like 'Pixel1' or PixelAB'.

If you'd rather keep your Local identity separate from Pixel on the main boards, then try a mashed-up name: ie part of one name mixed with part of another. So, instead of Penelope or Margaret, try Margenope or Pengaret. Those kind of names are more likely still to be free.

Good luck!

Ok thanks, will try and find something that will go. I suppose it doesn't matter if I stay as Pixel but I quite like the idea of a secret identity!

Well I managed to find one that went through thanks. Can't believe so many names that I thought were a bit mad have already been taken!
(Oh and I've left you a message in local if you can see it .)