FOLLOWING my letter in the Courier on August 16, concerning how the modern day emphasis on rehydration for children and adults has not only had a knock-on effect on the frequency of loo visits and the consequent need for loos nearer the playground in Newcombes Meadow, I have been approached by a number of Crediton residents supporting the campaign and telling me of their experiences.

There's no need for details, I'm sure your readers' imaginations are vivid enough to appreciate the dilemma that has faced many parents and carers throughout this lovely, long, hot summer.

The paddling pool in the park, a real boon to the community, was very well and continuously used. One wonders what proportion of its contents was "water" at the end of each day?

Children engaged in play don't notice their need to go until they really need to go! If you have two or more in your care, the chances of getting them all to leave the playground so that one can go to the loo are pretty negligible.

I know of a family where they have to take some of the children, whilst leaving the others in the playground! That would be fine, if the playground and loos were in sight of each other, but currently that is not the case and the time it takes to walk to Union Road or the Town Square is too long a time to leave the other unattended, especially if you are walking with small children.

So there is a child safety issue in unattended children or children sent to use loos that are not in sight of the playground.

I know some will wave a dismissive hand and say "Oh, what's all the fuss, they can use the hedge, it's alright, they're only children!"

Well, that may be the case for boys, but it's a rather different story for girls.

And, of course, in either case a very different story if you are talking "number 2s".

Whether boys or girls, does it really seem such a good idea in a public park when you don't actually know who is watching?

If anyone would like to support the campaign to get some toilets near the playground in Newcombe's Meadow, please join the facebook group "Crediton Park Needs Loos".

Thank you.

Ed Rennie

Park Road

Crediton