Luke Pollard has called for a greater awareness of HIV and AIDS in the region at a special meeting with Terrence Higgins Trust's HQ in London.

Luke said: "Since I recorded my 2007 World Aids Day video around 300 people in the south west became infected with HIV. Worryingly, this is the the same rate of infection as last year with no sign that the infection rate is reducing. The message that everyone needs to practice safe sex is just as important here in Devon as it is in larger cities. Every infection represents a person, a family and a life that will never be the same again.

"I have been very lucky that today I have had the chance to speak to the Chief Executive of the Terrence Higgins Trust and to hear for myself about the nifection rates in the Westcountry and across the UK. It is surely time that we broke the silence about HIV and AIDS and stopped the rise in infections here in Devon and across the country."

"If you do not know your HIV status then you should go for a test. Simlpy, if you are practising unsafe sexual practices use a condom."

To learn more about the excellent work of Terrence Higgins Trust or to find out more about HIV and AIDS please visit www.tht.org.uk