WHAT a poor sad soul is Steve Pascall who is unable to enjoy a stroll through Marlborough's French market (Letter of the week, July 28).

The Marlborough Area Development Trust sought to bring a little brightness into Marlborough's High Street by inviting the Continental Market to set up stall.

And what a delightful array of different products were on offer. Certainly some items may have been more expensive than local shops but then one doesn't have to buy.

It is a shame that our local market traders cannot emulate this feast of colour, glamour and excitement by leaving their trucks, vans and cars in the car park and serving from both sides of the stalls like the French.

A survey of local shoppers taken at the market has shown that two thirds were visitors to the town and the overall impact was described as 'brilliant', 'excellent' and 'brightens the town'.

I do not understand Steve Pascall berating the quality of goods on offer. I thought that most, especially the food, was of a very high standard. Come on Steve, where's your joie de vivre?

COUN G Francis

Mildenhall

Marlborough