How very depressing to hear of the refusal by Colchester Council of the application from the Foresters Arms for a music licence (Gazette, April 20).

The Foresters Arms is a rare gem – an old-fashioned pub which is both convivial and civilised, where the generations mix and where interesting conversations often arise quite spontaneously between complete strangers.

However, like most pubs, it has to battle to attract enough trade, and this means regular quiz nights, music nights and the like are absolutely essential for the business to survive.

By its own admission, the Forester Arms is not seeking to be a venue for heavily- amplified rock bands.

The noise levels generated by the sort of musicians attracted by this pub are not high, and local residents are overwhelmingly in favour of the music licence being granted.

Come on, Colchester Council, don’t be a bunch of killjoys.

Encourage people to take a break from the solitary pleasures of the telly and the computer, go to their local pub, enjoy good conversation and share some musical experiences.

I look forward to hearing the council will reconsider this ridiculous decision.

Alex Scott
Ipswich Road
Colchester