Simon Kirby MP led by example yesterday in getting tested to support National HIV Testing Week.

Mr Kirby, Conservative MP for Brighton Kemptown, had the simple finger-prick blood test at the Terrence Higgins Trust in Ship Street.

Results from the test are delivered within just 15 minutes - and Mr Kirby's was negative.

Mr Kirby MP said: “It’s quick, it’s easy and it doesn’t hurt. HIV is no longer the death sentence it used to be and regular testing can make the difference.

“I would urge anyone who has never been tested to go.”

There are thought to be around 100,000 people living with HIV in the UK, but a quarter of these are untested and therefore unaware they have the virus.

Ross Boseley, from the Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “We’re thrilled that Mr Kirby is helping us to put National HIV Testing Week on the map by taking a public |test.

“We know that the vast majority of new HIV transmissions are passed on by people who don’t yet know they have the virus.”

For more details and to book your test call 01273 764 200.