There was a time 40 years ago when Oxford was awash with public toilets.

Sadly those days have gone - I guess it's the druggie culture that permeates this city.

At that time, most loos had a concierge system and were looked after - the one in St Giles was immaculate.

Quite amazingly there is now something new happening. Cafes, bars and restaurants will have to open their toilets to whoever needs them, we are told.

This has been happening in Europe for years.

When my wife and I first went to Barcelona in the 1960s I looked around and could not find a public loo. It was customary to call in any bar and use theirs.

So at last we're catching Europe up 40 years on.

So from now on no more crossing legs. Use the cafes and bars. It's the new way!

MJ EVERETT Upper Road Kennington, Oxford