I have read the various posts above and the PMs I have received on the issue of this month's predictions.
Like it or not the models do influence the predictions as shown by the difference I identified between submissions on the 31st and 1st. In fact those who submitted predictions before the 31st averaged over 6c.
We are all aware of the deadlines and whilst most late entries are due to forgetfulness, you need to be aware that a late entry is always liable to be hit with a penalty.
Therefore in order to maintain the integrity of the competition and be fair and reasonable to all I have decided:
Of the 9 late entries, one will be penalty free as it was only 13 minutes late.
Two (bennyboy and bertwhistle) came in with predictions lower than the Jan 31st median and will just be given a 0.2c penalty for lateness.
Six (Moomin75, Saint Snow, Gusty, Redmoons, Hungry Tiger and Jacee) came in with far higher predictions and will be given a total penalty of 0.7c. Although Jacee's prediction was only 4.9c she was also late last month and has yet to submit a prediction on time.
February predictions will follow in a separate post.