Radio 1 is to play an edited version of Fairytale Of New York to avoid offending listeners

Fairytale of New York has been described as offensive by some listeners so this year Radio 1 will play a special edit of the festive favourite.

BBC Radio 1 will play an edited version of Fairytale Of New York this year in a bid to avoid offending listeners.

The Pogues’ gritty festive hit with Kirsty MacColl is a Christmas staple, though in recent years it has been the focus of debate over its lyrics.

The song includes the words “faggot” and “slut”.

This year, Radio 1 will play an alternative version of the track, with the record label providing different lyrics sung by MacColl.

It is understood Radio 1 bosses were wary of offending younger listeners with derogatory terms for gender and sexuality.

Radio 2 will play the original song, but said it will continue to monitor listeners’ views. 6 Music said it has made an edited version available and will allow presenters to make the choice.

Watch the full unedited version here:

In a statement, the BBC said: “We know the song is considered a Christmas classic and we will continue to play it this year, with our radio stations choosing the version of the song most relevant for their audience.”

Last year, the BBC defended using the unedited version of the 1987 song in the Gavin & Stacey Christmas special.