I JUST could not believe the letter stating that OAPs in residential homes and nursing homes will soon not be able to listen to music or watch a film in public communal areas unless they have a licence (January 10).

I am 77 and hope I never have to go into any residential, if there is no music or such.

In the past I have been in homes to sing with the dear ones and the joy on their faces as they were singing was worth the effort. I cannot believe people are trying to stop one of their joys, especially Hugh Bayley and people like him.

It made me so angry. Who are these people who think they can ban carol singing? I always thought this was a free country, but now I am not so sure.

Mrs G Ward,

Bramham Avenue,

Acomb, York.

Updated: 10:12 Tuesday, January 17, 2006