Pub and club-goers in Ealing can now be tested for chlamydia in a pilot scheme being launched in the borough.

The screening home test kits will be rolled out across selected bars in central Ealing, Greenford, Northolt and Southall in a bid to increase the numbers being tested for the infection.

People give a urine sample which is then sent to a laboratory and results are sent back by text message.

Ealing Primary Care Trust hopes this initiative will encourage more young people to be tested for the sexually transmitted infection which often shows no signs or symptoms.

A spokeswoman from the PCT said: "Few sexually active young people in Ealing have been tested and the NHS Ealing Chlamydia Action Zone (CAZ) team is working to change that by raising awareness of the common infection.

"Currently one in ten young people under 25 who are tested are found to have the infection which if left untreated can lead to infertility.

"Young people may have heard of chlamydia through the media, friends and local initiatives, but they are reluctant to attend clinics or pick up a postal kit from GPs, colleges and other venues.

"By making the kits available at pubs and clubs, NHS Ealing is offering a more discreet way to get tested."

The trust said that if the kits proved successful their use would be extended elsewhere.

For more information call the chlamydia helpline on 020 3313 5500.