I READ your article on Newgate Market with great interest (April 22).

I have shopped in the market on a regular basis since coming to York more than 25 years ago.

It is convenient, produce is fresh and you can buy as much or as little as you need - unlike the big superstores.

The market fulfils a need but, unfortunately, it has declined in the past two years.

I note that at least one third of the stalls are not occupied on a daily basis, and sometimes less than that.

The market used to be in Parliament Street permanently, so why can't it go back? It would be better than the overpriced continental markets and would be more in keeping.

The council seems to think the traders should attract trade but this is difficult because the market is now out of the way and the only sign is the one above a flower stall.

I also see from the article that money was spent on moving the market to Newgate some years ago and presume the rents charged since that date would have brought it into profit.

After looking around it appears that not a lot has been spent on the upkeep since then.

I was surprised to read Coun Steve Galloway's comments at the end of the article.

If he only shops at Marks & Spencer how can he know what the market offers and how it contributes to the local economy?

He is the leader of the council and as such he should be listening to the concerns of local traders and looking after their interests. Perhaps he should also remember that council members are elected by the same traders and their customers.

Mrs B Reid,

Hull Road, York.

Updated: 10:10 Monday, May 02, 2005