SHOPPERS visiting a supermarket will be presented with a striking message about meningitis.

A trailer about the symptoms of the brain condition has been sited outside Asda, in Hartlepool.

Meningitis UK is trying to raise awareness of the condition because the number of cases usually rises dramatically in the winter months.

The trailer, which will contain educational literature about the condition, will be in the supermarket car park for two weeks, before it then moves to other stores across the UK.

Nicola Fisher, communications officer for Meningitis UK, said: "With over 2,200 cases of all forms of meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia provisionally recorded in the UK last year, it is vital that everyone remains vigilant.

"When it strikes, often with little or no warning, it can devastate whole communities.

"Knowing the symptoms can mean the difference between life and death."

The charity is looking for volunteers in the region to raise money or distribute leaflets about the condition.

For further information contact Meningitis UK, 25 Cleeve Wood Road, Downend, Bristol, BS16 2SF, or call (0117) 3737373.