BBC to play edited version of Fairytale Of New York to avoid offending listeners 

Shane McGowan sang Fairytale Of New York, the hugely popular Christmas song that has attracted controversy (Yui Mok/PA)

BBC Radio 1 will play an edited version of Christmas favourite Fairytale Of New York 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.