YOUR SHOUT

This week responses to my thoughts on the negative reaction to Diversity’s dance interpretation of the murder of George Floyd... »Fiona, I am 75, did I want to

watch Diversity with my grandchildren? No. We were hoping for an evening of joy and fun and a break after six months of misery.

Why are you glorifying career criminal George Floyd? I don’t care if he’s black or white, if you don’t want to get involved with the police, don’t do the crime. So hands up, I was complaining. If you don’t want repercussions, black or white, DON’T do the crime! So I’ll let you decide if I’m racist!! Although in your woke way I think I know your answer.

I’m anticipating your expected reply – I’m happy I upset you enough to send it.

Brian Milsom, via email

FP: Funnily enough it didn’t. People who go out of their way to upset me never do.

»Fiona, I have the greatest respect for your views, and read your column without fail, but perhaps – you too – could be “missing the point“as far as Diversity’s BLM performance was concerned? I watched it and was totally in awe of the dance routine, which was performed with military precision. The point is that the programme is all about talent, not politics, and should remain so. There is a time and a place for everything. We watch BGT to preview up-and-coming raw talent in the hope of seeing another Susan Boyle or Diversity (!!) on our screen.

Brian Davies, via email

FP: What a lovely gentleman you are, Brian. I still think Diversity’s performance was totally appropriate, though. We shouldn’t hide from the truth, no matter which platform it’s on.

»Fiona, I don’t normally bother to email newspapers but felt the need to as, on reading your column last Saturday, I was so chuffed to read you don’t get racism either. That’s exactly how I feel. I thought I was on

my own. Also, your views on Boris (how disrespectful we are to refer to our PM by his first name).

I too think he’s probably nice to chat to but as leader I’m afraid he should be someone we can look up to, not ridicule. He and Trump make a fine pair.

Ella, via email

FP: I’m glad you felt the need to get in touch, Ella! Thank you.

»Fiona, according to ONS figures, 60% of

people over 64 do not have smart phones, so what use is the wonderful new coronavirus app to people like me? I suppose we are meant to stay home and not see our families as there is no method of contact if we should become infected! Christine McGiffie, Bridgend, Wales

FP: The worrying habit of bowing down to constantly changing technology, in place of familiar forms of communication and maintaining regular human contact is, for me, the way to madness, Christine, as well as exclusion from society for those unable to keep up.