I refer to Thomas Davies's letter (February 14) and the deputy mayor's response (February 21).

I have just returned from my 23rd holiday in Malta and know the area well. It is just one of the uncared for dumps on the island.

Marsaxlokk, along with the Upper Barrakka Gardens, are my favourite places. Sadly, the former has been ruined by the outbreak of tourist stalls along the once tranquil and beautiful waterfront.

When I first found this delightful fishing village there were about three to four stalls which didn't impact on the area too much, but now it is truly awful. I do not even try to go there on Sundays where the once small fish market has been turned into one of the largest general markets that I have ever seen on the island. Those who have been on Sundays, if they can find somewhere to park, will not see the great relaxing views and watch the fishermen going about their profession. They will be squashed between bottles of washing liquid, fruit and vegetables, pots and pans and the other detritus that could be bought anywhere on weekdays.

I hope that the local inhabitants find the market useful, but it does ruin this extraordinarily beautiful village for me. I do not expect Marsaxlokk to be preserved for the tourist, however, I do believe that some control over the size of this market should be attempted in order to preserve its wonderful character which is a gem on this rapidly developing island.