Thanks for both your replies

He does come very quickly when there are no human or dog distractions... even when he is sniffing or something I will call him excitedly then run away and he comes. but when there are other dogs or people around he just completely ignores me.

I understand what you mean about him learning to ignore me, and i definately dont want to drill that into him so i will keep him on a long line as i have been doing. Will take your advice on letting the lead drop along behind him too.

cheers