WHAT is so special about the age 50 (or 60 or 70)? We shall soon be told we are old at 35. Is this ageism?

It is a pity the younger "oldies" such as Sue Lister perpetuate the image that in maturity one can only knit, make rugs or watch others perform and we need things arranging for us ('Over-50s planning week of festival revelry', May 20).

This is far from the case. Most older people I know are too busy swimming, walking, debating topical matters, attending meetings of various interest groups and fitting in the odd whist drive or bridge session.

They are far too active to have the time, or inclination, to watch belly dancing, poetry perfomances and other sedentary pursuits suggested by Sue. It is mature older people who are running and taking part in these activities for the younger generation to enjoy.

Having been organised by others for most of our working lives, most of us are now free to indulge in things we have always wanted to do without having to be directed by someone who seems to think we cannot organise ourselves.

Alec Acomb,

Hillcrest Avenue,

Nether Poppleton, York.

Updated: 09:38 Friday, May 27, 2005