“Today is a sad day. We have just received the news that Charles Azzopardi, former General Manager at Phoenicia Hotel, passed away,” wrote the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association in a post on social media earlier today.

A hospitality specialist with a long career in the industry, Mr Azzopardi was most recently General Manager at the Phoenicia Malta.

“Charles will be remembered not only as one of the top hoteliers in Malta but more significantly as a mentor to many who today work across the tourism sector. On behalf of the MHRA President, Council, Secretariat and members we express our heartfelt condolences to his family,” continued the MHRA in their post, adding funeral details.

A funeral service for the widely respected hotelier will be held at the Mosta Rotunda Basilica tomorrow, Friday 26th June, at 3:30pm.