NHS Oxfordshire has re-written a festive carol to spread a message of sexual health.

Using social networking site Twitter, they sent out 12 ‘tweets’ – on the theme of the Twelve Days of Christmas – warning of the consequences of unprotected sex.

One tweet said: “On the first day of Christmas my true love sent to me, condoms in a pack of three.”

Another said: “On the tenth day of Christmas my true love sent to me, tests to check we’re STI free.”

Alison Burton, health improvement principal at NHS Oxfordshire, said: “The messages add a bit of fun to what is a serious topic. It is important people remember to practise safe sex all year round but it is particularly important over the festive season when people may drink more than normal.

“The more you drink, the less careful you are.”