YOU ask 'What happened to York Market?" (April 22)... probably the reason for the drop in sales and customers is down to the fact it is a seven days a week, 52 weeks a year market and nearly always has same goods on display.

Unlike the past, we don't need to shop every day, because most of us have a fridge, and/or freezer in which to store food.

Unfortunately for the open markets the supermarkets offer reduced prices, free parking and the same quality of service.

Markets were for the residents, but times change. As for York being for the tourists, it was and will always be for tourists first and residents last.

P J Markwick,

Forge Close,

Jockey Lane,

York.

Updated: 10:51 Wednesday, April 27, 2005