17 MARCH 2001, Page 63

Q. Re your response to M.H. of Lerida, Spain (10

February), regarding 'rodeoformation' in loo usage, just how does one rid oneself of one's knickers to achieve such a pose? A better question, I reckon, would be how does one get them back on, while maintaining one's composure and dignity?

B.F.N., Albury, N.S.W., Australia A. There is no reason why knickers and/or tights should be lowered to any greater extent for rodeo lavatory-mounting than when adopting the conventional pose. The experienced lavatory-goer assembles the package of lowered underwear using her thumb as a safety brace. She holds it taut, in reverse catapult mode, and well out of the way of any surfaces that might cause cross-contamination when snapped back into juxtaposition with mucous membranes.