Who would think that we are the fifth wealthiest nation in the whole world – especially when we are experiencing such difficulties in providing and maintaining public toilets in such a premier tourist and seaside area as ours?

Where is all that wealth?

The mysterious machinations of the Government and councils involved suggest that we are way further down that list.

In similar circumstances it would be a fair bet that the French would kick up quite a stink if ‘”les pissoirs de Paris’” were under such a dire threat.

It is, therefore, highly commendable that Cllrs Venner and Malin were prepared to bring this situation so graphically to the public’s attention, only then to be publicly and summarily admonished by the mayor for their efforts.

One would hope that she might actually sympathise with the numerous coachloads of middle-aged ladies eager to visit Minehead, albeit with the traditional first stop at the appropriate facilities.

Would the imposition of a lavvy levy be preferable to fewer or no loos at all?

As for the lack of funds to provide such a vital service, apparently Minehead Town Council is sitting on a very substantial cash reserve of public money.

Surely in the circumstances, this is precisely the kind of situation for some of this reserve to be used - for the benefit of the very public on whom the town largely depends.

Ivor Jones, Doverhay, Porlock.