WAS there any real need for Jo Haywood to be so scathing about Barbra Streisand in her column? (It's diva-bolical, The Press, April 30.) For her information, this fine performer has not appeared in the UK for 13 years, and her tour of Europe is a first.

The column was sheer nonsense from beginning to end. Yes, Barbra attracts high earnings, but many worthy charities benefit from them, so let us show some respect for this talented woman who provides so much pleasure for so many.

Elizabeth Harris, Bishopthorpe, York .