Thanks Moejoe...
To tell the truth, I can understand a lot of what you're saying - I would never dream to look down on or think anyone less of a writer because they are not with a traditional publisher. It'd be hypocrisy of the highest order.
My point, as I say, is only that I believe at this time the traditional publishing route is still the one more likely to breed success. This may well change in the future and I'll be as happy as anyone it if does.
For now though, i'll still be using my well worn copy of the writer's and artists yearbook
...although they now have a large section about self-publishing, so the good folks who produce it obviously see the merits in it.