• DURING the online consultation organised by Camden Council, all elderly participants spoke out against an online-only parking payment system.

So the Town Hall’s decision to ignore their voices is a really regrettable form of ageism.

In many European countries an effort is made to enable the elderly to maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Since many consider the online payment system a daunting task, the removal of scratch cards will inevitably create new dependencies.

However, some people may be too embarrassed to ask relatives, neighbours or friends for never-ending favours or simply have nobody to ask to do the online booking on their behalf.

The imposition of the online-only system on the elderly might raise anxiety levels and lead to greater isolation.

If postage is the issue, people could have been asked to pay for it or should be allowed to collect the scratch cards from the council.

GABRIELE vom BRUCK, NW3