THE traditional stiff upper lip could soon be replaced by the sound of puckering lips, according to a North-East expert.

A growing European influence may trigger a rise in the number of affectionate couples kissing in public.

That is the forecast of Dr Nick Neave, lecturer in psychology at Northumbria University.

"In places like Italy and France there is kissing in public, even among men. It is a sign of affection and greeting," he said.

He was speaking after one such display in the region - led by the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Councillor Peter Thompson, and his Lady Mayoress, Claire Satow.

The Kissathon 2001, which was arranged by bus company Arriva, targeted dozens of people across Newcastle in an attempt to find the best "serious snog", "naughty nibble" and "peck on the cheek", while raising funds for the Lord Mayor's charities.

Dr Neave said that such displays could become the norm.

He said: "The English tend not to kiss in public and definitely not strangers. It is a cultural thing.

"You often see that young children naturally seem to want to kiss people, but I think we grow out of that, which I think might be a shame."