Talk of the Town: Urine for fun time with gaming loos

As public loos come under fire in Edinburgh, Tokyo offers what you call a comfort break.

Techno-loving Japanese men can now play computer games mid-flow in the gents. Sega has begun installing new entertainment system "Toylets" in urinals to put fun into spending a penny.

The Toylet works by a pressure sensor in the urinal measuring the strength and location of the urine stream as it hits the basin.

Gamers can either take part in dousing a volcano, erasing graffiti and even sumo wrestling. An eye-level screen displays the game graphics and rewards the strength, length and accuracy of the pee with points.

Put your mind to it and discover a psychic talent

EVER wondered if you had the gift of second sight or an ability to read minds? Well now you can find out.

The Edinburgh College of Parapsychology is looking for the next generation of psychics, clairvoyants and soothsayers.

It has advertised for those who "think you have the psychic ability" to take part in a ten-week course involving cards, crystals and meditation.

The course starts on January 18, at the college in Melville Street, and anyone who needs more information should consult the spirits, or call 0131-220 1433.

Walk on the wild side

IT'S an unlikely mode of transport that could see its popularity soar if bleak winters become a constant.

Now there's no need for a trip to Scandinavia to learn the basic technique . . . just a drive to Dunbar.

For the coastal seaside resort, famed for receiving more sunshine than any town in Scotland, will be hosting a course on Nordic Walking - or walking with poles.

The sessions are designed to equip participants with the skills to effectively trek in treacherous snow-capped conditions, not unlike most high streets in the Lothians over the last few months.

The courses are being held on February 2, March 4 and March 19 for a cost of 18.

Food for thought

FINALLY, there is more good news for those people out there thinking about starting a New Year diet - they would be better to wait.

New research by Sainsbury's Diets reveals Scots are more likely to fall off the diet wagon if they begin at the start of January than those who begin on January 15.

So there's still a whole five days left to indulge without any guilt.