My husband and I have been regular visitors to this beautiful island for many years and we have always stayed at the Corinthia Jerma Palace Hotel in Marsascala. We were rather sad to be leaving the hotel on the last occasion as it appears that a decision has been made to close it in March. We have been unable to obtain any firm information regarding the building's future but there are many rumours circulating, some suggesting that it is to be demolished to make way for luxury flats.

We firmly believe that Marsascala is the best part of the island and has much to offer tourists wishing to experience a relaxing holiday. During our visits to the hotel, it is always busy and we regularly see the same faces staying there, suggesting that other people share our views. The hotel is in a quiet location with breathtaking views out to sea and has everything tourists are looking for. We therefore find it incredible that a decision has been made to close it down when the authorities are attempting to encourage more visitors to the island. If you want to encourage people to return, you must ensure that the facilities you have on offer are the best and you cannot afford to demolish buildings such as the Jerma. During our stay, we spoke to many of the staff who we now consider to be our friends. They were all concerned regarding their future as they had been provided with very little information regarding the plans for the hotel.

Many of these people have given many years of loyal service and this is no way to treat them. They are the real "Brand Malta" and deserve to be treated with respect and know what the plans are for the future so that they may plan their futures. The closure will also have a detrimental effect on local businesses.

We would urge the powers that be to reconsider their decision to close the hotel. If necessary, the government should step in to prevent further loss of tourism to the island.