Drinkers at gay bars, clubs and saunas will be able to order a syphilis test along with their pint during the next few weeks.

Customers are being offered five-minute tests when they visit venues in Brighton and Hove. The results can be delivered over the phone.

The Only A Little Prick campaign was launched by Brighton Syphilis Outreach Project.

Terry French, acting regional director for the Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "Most gay venues in the city have been very supportive.

"The campaign is a response to a significant rise in the number of positive tests for syphilis in the Brighton area.

"Most people with syphilis do not notice any symptoms so it goes untreated. Yet it is very easy to treat. The campaign allows people to be tested without having to go to a clinic."

Bar staff have helped to promote the campaign by wearing T-shirts and badges supporting the tests.

Clinic staff will be in venues across Brighton each night until November 15. For more information, call 08451 221200.