ALCOHOL campaigners in the North-East are calling for a controversial "libido-boosting" drink to be banned.

Roxxoff, which is said to contain Chinese aphrodisiacs, vodka and passion fruit, is being investigated by The Portman Group, which promotes sensible drinking.

The drink, which launches in the region next month, contains Chinese herbs such as epimedium grandiflorun, otherwise known as Horny Goat Weed.

Last night, Mick Davies, of the Tunstall Unit in Sunderland, which provides detox for alcohol and drug addicts, called for a ban.

He said: "No matter what the industry says, alcopops are targeted at underage drinkers and I believe this one could cause particular problems. Not only do we have youngsters drinking, they are being encouraged to have sex, and when they are drunk they are less likely to think about safe sex, leading to unwanted pregnancies and the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

"This drink should not see the light of day."

Jack Law, of the Glasgow-based Alcohol Focus, claimed Roxxoff breached industry guidelines set by The Portman Group - and a spokeswoman for The Portman Group last night confirmed Roxxoff is being investigated.

Surrey-based Lynch Wines is launching Roxxoff in a series of adverts featuring a scantily-clad Dannii Minogue.

Chris Williams, from the company, said: "We are very aware of our responsibilities as an alcoholic drinks manufacturer.

"But our drink has got herbs in it which heighten the senses. We'd rather our sons and daughters were out there drinking a drink which doesn't dull the senses."