WALKERS enjoying the coastal path at Cwmtydu are being “caught short” when they find the village toilets closed, according to locals.

The public convenience at the tiny coastal hamlet has been shut since the riverbank collapsed and anguished passing visitors had found there was nowhere to spend a penny – until Ceredigion County Council provided a portable loo.

Fed-up locals have become accustomed to cross-legged hikers pounding on their front doors and pleading to use their own toilets.

Now County Hall has offered to repair the toilets – as long as Llandysiliogogo Community Council agrees to take over their maintenance.

Councillors, who have in the past questioned whether they have the necessary funds, are expected to discuss the matter at their next meeting on Tuesday, 19 April.

“It’s quite a serious issue because Cwmtydu is the only place you can go to the toilet between New Quay and Llangrannog,” local councillor Berwyn Thomas told the Cambrian News.

“But for a small council such as ourselves, taking them over would be a big commitment. To be quite honest, I’m not sure we can afford the cost. The National Trust has been approached, but they just didn’t want to know.

One villager, who asked not to be named, said some locals had felt obliged to let desperate walkers use their toilets.

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