St Magnus Lane, Kirkwall

The toilets in St Magnus Lane can not be said to be the most inviting or attractive public conveniences. Probably not very well used, one might think. But this morning I found out just how busy they can be, as I set about reading a water meter which is in the footpath right at the entrance.

To add to the challenge, the heavy rectangular cover obstinately refused to budge on the first dozen attempts and once it was off, the chamber was half full of mud!

I like reading water meters.... usually.