Dave, the unknown person I mentioned in the OP has abandoned their efforts to become a member after many attempts unless you can assist.
Registration is apparently successful however the email with a link to activate their new membership NEVER arrives !
Spam folders have been checked and alternative emails used and much hair pulled out !
Is it some SMF bug ?
Can the login and password used for registration be used for login without account activation ?
Really
How many new members are you potentially not gaining because of this ?
Drop me a PM with a contact email that I can pass onto this chap if you like.