SIR - Louise Meehan's letter (T&A, October 30) responds to my earlier accusation of spin by the BBC in their recent Question Time programme broadcast locally.

Firstly, I must thank her for repeatedly using my name four times in her contradiction. I feel positively famous - quite an ego booster for a newly-appointed OAP.

As well as watching the live show, I recorded it, reviewing the full content three times before submitting my opinions.

I have no reason to alter my statement; the audience was dominated by young and middle-aged people to the detriment of older, grey-haired participators.

Since then, I have received several congratulatory comments agreeing with my letter and its contents. However, a couple of pals mentioned separately that perhaps older people in the Bradford area were afraid to go out after dark in our criminal-infested city.

This could be a substantive reason for such a low number on display. I admit sympathy to those suggestions.

Finally, I would point out that I did apply online three days after the public announcement. I completed a lengthy questionnaire, yet the BBC in their magnanimity completely ignored me. I await the merest acknowledgment.

Alan Chapman, Beck Lane, Bingley