Editor Andrew Parkes has a number of thoughts every week, here are just five of them.

1. CCTV is everywhere these days and I suppose we’ve all got to used to it. But, I was astonished last week when stood at a urinal in a south Wales pub, I noticed the camera above my head. Returning to the bar, I leant around the corner to see the screen showing CCTV coverage and saw the current line-up of gents in all their glory. CCTV showing tackle out – too invasive or justified to tackle drug taking in toilets? You decide.

2. Back in south London the sun was shining as I walked into work and in Sutton high street I witnessed people relaxing in deck chairs while youngsters enjoyed a round of mini golf on an improvised course in an unused section of the town centre. Too often I, and many others, knock councils for their failings. It is, therefore, only fair to give credit where it is due. This is a fantastic initiative and really adds value to the town – well done Sutton Council.

3. A crime reporter was barred from court after a judge decided the defendant was too “distressed” for journalists to be allowed in. The 16-year-old girl was accused of involvement in a street robbery, which was posted on social media after being recorded on a phone. This is an outrageous decision and should never be repeated. Imagine not covering any court cases because the defendant gets upset? Every scumbag in the world will be turning on the waterworks. Pity she didn’t think about the tears of her victim.

4. I’m sure everyone knows my views on smoking, but I attended an event in fancy dress at the weekend and took an old pipe along to finish off the 1940/50s look. The mistake was lighting it up with some cherry-infused tobacco. I am more convinced than ever that smoking is a complete mug’s game.

5. Betting shops are opening earlier and earlier. The one I passed today started at 7am. Maybe it was a one-off, but one look at the folk having a fag outside and you could tell they were definitely regulars. Do betting shops really need to open this early? What’s so important taking place at this time that requires punters’ immediate attention?

Send in your 5THOUGHTS by email to aparkes@ london.newsquest.co.uk Send on Twitter to @parkestheeditor Send through Facebook to facebook.com/ newsshopper