It has been a while since I have used the address import but you do have to use the up and down controls to match the imported data with the fields in Thunderbird. It sounds like you do not have the address data matched up with the email address field in the forum.

Yes, that's exactly my problem, please can you explain the process fully, as I have tried all the combinations but can't get the email address to show in the address book. I can't find any sort of clue in the Mozilla help pages. Sorry if I am being thick but which column relates to the Thunderbird layout? My BT Mail contact list is pretty simple, first name last name and email address, I don't include phone numbers, birthdays etc. OR: Is there possibly a way I can look at my csv file and edit it? Some people use Excel, but I don't have this software - perhaps you can recommend a freeware program?

I tried to write a how to here http://thunderbirdtweaks.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/importing-csv-files.html sometime ago. but the thing is if you modify the columns in the CSV file in a spreadsheet program first to match what Thunderbird expects (Both in name and order) then you do not need to fiddle with that terrible user interface that aligns field name with field name.

That is in that dialog if you have Surname beside email address the surname is treated as the email address.

Thanks for the information Matt, but after much fiddling with the interface I have finally managed to get it to display things correctly. Have a good day.