IF ever there were two current TV programmes that would justify a refund of the TV licence, it would be Britain's Got Talent on ITV and Big Brother on Channel Five. They have both become parodies of themselves and their formats are rapidly becoming well past their sell-by dates. David Walliams continues to hod the highlight with his irritatingly unfunny antics winding up Simon Cowell and this year's Big Brother contestants must be the most annoying ever. The talentless wannabes are a bunch of self-possessed exhibitionists being put through a series of boring childish "tasks". Last Thursday's episode in a disused mental hospital was the absolute pits, and if I hear the words "Oh My God" once more I will vow never to watch this programme ever again. This would be a pity as I think the basic ideas behind both programmes are sound, providing as they do, pure, none demanding entertainment. The problem is, if these shows were to be shelved, would there be a guarantee that new formats could be found to replace them successfully? It's back to the drawing board.

Mohammed Ismail

Ladybridge

Bolton