P HICKS wrote to the East London Advertiser 18 years ago proposing that the grossly-underused Tobacco Dock at Wapping was ideally placed to be a red light’ district complete with tattoo parlours, etc. His proposal was greeted with scorn and derision

P HICKS wrote to the East London Advertiser 18 years ago proposing that the grossly-underused Tobacco Dock at Wapping was ideally placed to be a 'red light' district complete with tattoo parlours, etc (Advertiser Letters, May 10, 1991).

His proposal was greeted with scorn and derision by the chairman of Tobacco Dock Traders' Association and the development officer of the East End Tourism Trust in subsequent correspondence in the newspaper.

I see that Tobacco Dock is hosting the London International Tattoo Convention for the second year running, with 'seductive burlesque performers and a 'fetish market' on offer. Last year's show was by all accounts hugely enjoyable, with many residents, including leading religious and civic figures, actively participating. It is highly likely that it will become a permanent fixture on Wapping's cultural calendar and an asset to East End tourism.

The foresight of Mr Hicks in 1991 has been vindicated. I hope his detractors have the decency to admit to their lack of vision!

John Rowe

The Ship on the Green, Stepney Green, Stepney