THE latest weapon in the battle to make young people aware of sexually transmitted diseases has been unveiled -- and it's a load of old pants.

Underpants to be exact, four pairs which will form a striking advert on Greater Manchester Buses until mid January.

The eye catching ad, designed by local youngsters aware of the dramatic increase in STI figures in the Leigh and Wigan area, may be fun but it also carries a very serious message.

"You can't tell by looking who's been infected" says the logo over pairs of boxers which have warnings of warts, syphilis and herpes emblazoned across the crutch.

How true. Let's hope it makes young people sit up and take notice and stop any possible heartache when the carefree Christmas and New Year partying is over.