SEXUAL health advice will be available from the borough's pharmacies over the Christmas party season.

Pharmacists will be giving advice on sexual health matters, such as sexually transmitted infections (STI) and contraception in a pilot scheme running throughout December.

Most stores will offer quiet, confidential areas where patients can receive advice.

Bromley Primary Care Trust's community pharmacy advisor Tushar Shah says the public is often unaware of what services a pharmacist can offer.

He says longer opening hours and a no appointment necessary approach, combined with their expertise makes them highly accessible for advice.

But if they cannot help they will direct patients to clinics where STI testing is carried out.

Boots stores in the borough are also offering free testing packs for chlamydia as part of a Government scheme.