Like many others, I was extremely disappointed to read recent reports in the Echo of Bournemouth Council placing restrictions on the bands who play in the Lower Gardens, due apparently to complaints from residents.

But I am intrigued to know exactly who these residents are.

To the north east of the gardens is the Pavilion Theatre and car park in Westover Road, alongside which there are no residential properties.

To the south east is Bath Road from where, due to its elevated position, the bands would not be audible. And to the west is the retail area and car park around Exeter Crescent.

But due south we do of course have the sea.

So perhaps that’s it – is it the mermaids who have been complaining?

I think we should be told!

Robin Haggett Magdalen Lane, Christchurch