Now that the Aviation Museum Foundation at Ta' Qali has inaugurated the Air Battle of Malta Memorial Hangar, it is time to have the Gloster Gladiator currently kept at the War Museum in Valletta transferred to this highly significant site to be given the care, attention and importance it so rightly deserves. This proud survivor from the earliest days of Malta's defence is gathering dust in a restricted location where one cannot even step back to appreciate it. What's more, a set of wings await it at the Museum.

These can never be fitted onto the aircraft if it is left in its present location. The magnificent restoration work being carried out by the Museum Foundation's dedicated staff and volunteers can be seen by the way the once derelict site has been transformed into a constantly growing museum of the same standard as those abroad. Exhibits are being restored from deteriorating, submerged wrecks into magnificent showpieces like the Spitfire and Hurricane.

Just imagine what the Gladiator would look like if it is located within the museum, its rightful place. After all, the Memorial Hangar collection can never be complete without an example of the first aircraft to have defended the island. And we are lucky to be in possession of such a rare showpiece. The authorities concerned are urged to take immediate action so that this move may become a reality.