London, Oct 1 (ANI): Almost half of Britons want to see more older people on television, revealed a recent survey.

The Sky News panel survey was conducted as part of Older People’s Day, which recognises the contributions made to society by its elderly citizens.

Almost two thirds of those interviewed believe the BBC was wrong when the channel replaced Arlene Phillips as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing with Alesha Dixon.

In fact, a larger number of people felt that Phillips was the victim of ageism.

Almost 81 percent of Britons do not support the notion that television needs to be glamorous and exciting, therefore presenters need to be young attractive.

For nearly three quarters of Britons, the age of a TV newsreader does not make a difference, as long as they are good enough to do their jobs.

Dame Joan Bakewell has recently pointed out that there seems to be a gender bias on television, with far more elderly males than females.

And the survey has supported the statement, with more than two-thirds feeling older women are under-represented.

Nearly half of those asked feel there should be more elderly people on our screens.

The survey found that 37 percent of people think the British treat older people as a nuisance or a burden, and nearly 25 percent say they are ignored. (ANI)