Conversely, the North East of England also lays claim to the phrase's origin, citing the urine trade which was seen as an undesireable cargo for sailors working from the River Tyne. Because the city collected urine from public facilities and exported a refined version of it, it was often used as ship's ballast in place of water - having a resale value at the other end of the journey. Consequently, sailors discussing their cargo in local establishments would genially accuse others reputed to be lying about their cargo of "taking the piss" - or hauling urine.