Germans invent portable toilet for women that fits in a handbag

A German company is marketing a mobile toilet for women that fits into their handbags and can be used whenever they are caught short.

Aware that the fairer sex battle with long queues at conveniences and are loathe to relieve themselves at roadsides like men, the makers of the "Ladybag" believe they are on to a winner.

The disposable portable lavatory consists of a plastic bag fitted with absorbent polymers that turn urine into a gel.

The size of a chocolate bar when folded, it has a wide opening and can be used squatting, sitting or standing.

The gel can absorb a pint of urine, but in an emergency the bag itself can hold 2.2 pints.

"It can be used in cars, or to avoid dirty toilets or at open-air festivals when you don't want to queue. You can just nip round the back of the toilet and use this," Eva Tinter, who invented the Ladybag, told Germany's Der Spiegel magazine.

"There's never been a product like this in this form."

The Ladybag is recommended for one-time use and comes in a bag of three for €11.27 (£9.85) including packaging.

"The gel prevents unpleasant smells and the bag can be disposed of in rubbish bins. It is not harmful to the environment," added Ms. Tinter.