THOUSANDS of extra condoms have been ordered to help sexual health centres in Southend cope with a predicted Olympics “summer of loving”.

With thousands of visitors due to arrive in south Essex for the Olympic mountain bike event next month, health officials are anxious to make sure they are prepared.

Southend Hospital ’s sxual health clinic manager Alison Keefe said: “Sexually-transmitted infections are already on the increase and we are expecting sports fans will be indulging in some extra-energetic activity themselves over the coming weeks.

“That’s why we are receiving extra condom supplies in readiness for the excitement.

“The feelgood factor, a holiday atmosphere and the climax of the Games are all set to add to the ‘summer of lovin’’ being forecast.”

Ms Keefe added: “Without wanting to be killjoys, we would just like to remind everyone they have a responsibility for their own sexual health and their partner’s.”

Condoms will be available free from the Kingsley-Ward Centre in Southchurch Road, Southend, and the sexual health clinic in the hospital.