THE most we can ask of a public toilet is that it is there when we need it, and is as clean as possible.

Nobody could pretend an affection for them, like they might have for other public services such as libraries and leisure centres.

But it's not often that, while shopping, you suddenly have an overwhelming, irresistible urge to find a particular book, or lift weights.

And even if you did, the consequences of not finding the book or the gym are potentially less serious than not finding a toilet.

Let's just say that when you need a public toilet, you really need one. Which is why there should be a minimum number in the places where people go.

And, of course, one of these places is Tiverton town centre, where Mid Devon District Council is considering getting rid of the toilets near the bus station in Phoenix Lane, as well as elsewhere.

Interestingly, this news came on the same day that Exeter City Council backed down in the face of a huge public outcry against plans to close lots of toilets.

So if you want to keep enough toilets open for those times when you need them, you must let the district council know what you think.