A wee rest could be a welcome relief on a night out

A city pub has mounted two innovative "urinal headrests" above WCs to give male patrons a bit of comfort while they are having a tinkle.

The latest in lavatory accessories has been installed in Henry's Cellar Bar on Morrison Street and has been a real hit with revellers keen to relieve the strain of relieving themselves.

Leaning against the soft cushioned panel takes some of the pressure off the legs and ensures more inebriated customers don't bash their noggins off the ceramic tiles.

Designed by Alan Faulds with artist Jonathan Owen, the bespoke headrests were gifted to the bar as part of a community bartering project, with Mr Faulds receiving some free gig tickets in return.

Mr Faulds created the concept through his work with Artlink, a project based in the Lothians aimed at getting disabled or disadvantaged people into the arts. The organisation also tries to raise awareness and encourages people to look at issues from a different perspective.

Leonora Winstanley, events manager and sound engineer at Henry's, said the new fittings had become something of a talking point among customers.

"Everyone here thinks it's a brilliant idea and all the girls are very jealous," she said. "The boys think it's excellent and a right good laugh.

"It's kind of silly but at the same time it makes sense.

"Why not have a bit of comfort when you're going to the toilet? It's an excellent concept and shows he is thinking outside the box."

Dave Leith, 30, from Marchmont who tested out the design, said: "It's very comfortable and I could see it being more useful the longer the night goes on."

Henry's Cellar Bar was approached by Artlink a few months before the pieces were installed and bosses were quick to give it the thumbs up.

"We got an e-mail from Artlink with pictures and an explanation about how the piece came about," said Leonora. "Alan Faulds thought that coming down to Henry's was like dying and going to heaven so wanted to have his design installed here.

"We thought it was a great idea and checked with the bar owners to make sure they were happy with it."

Such is the fame of the headrests among regulars Ms Winstanely believes the concept will be anything but a flash in the pan.

"I think it's not just a functional piece but it says a lot. It makes a statement and it's something a bit different. Generally people think its a very good idea and we've had lots of comments from customers.

"I reckon it could take off. He's definitely tapped into a market. I'm sure there was a time before toilet seats when some bright spark said 'lets make going to the loo more comfortable' and came up with that. Who's to say that in 20 years' time there couldn't be urinal head rests everywhere."