SO, Councillor Rampton is “ at a loss to understand” concerns about toilet closures now that it is official “ there is no risk communicable disease from public urination “ (Echo, June 22).

In his opinion, and bafflingly that of Janet Walton, this ‘health statement’ validates the closure of public toilets throughout Poole.

It is my view that this is a frankly misogynist attitude. The only people urinating into the bushes, behind a tree, or against a building, will be male. It is an option rarely used by women or girls above toddler age, or anyone trying to teach children civilised behaviour.

It is an antisocial act that is embarrassing to witness but apparently ok for Cllr Rampton and co who forget that females have to go, too.

Do I really need to educate them and the rest of the council of the various situations and human conditions that may lead ordinary people to find themselves at risk of great embarrassment and distress due to lack of basic facilities in a town where some of the wealthiest households in the country are contributing to the rates?

Hang on, didn’t the pubic toilets near to some of these houses miraculously reopen following public urination?

Cllr Rampton and co ignore the desperation of women using public transport and therefore expecting toilets at the bus station.

There are those that arrive early to connect with a coach, often for a long onward journey, or those that enjoy a night out on the quay, only to find long queues for the ladies loos in the pubs but no further facilities available before boarding a bus home.

Some men may find it acceptable to “slip out the back for a leak” after all, there is no health risk, but most of us would prefer a flushing toilet no matter how spartan.

Janice Sugrue

Locarno Road, Swanage

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