The launch, which was held at the University of Bristol, the location of the charity's flagship laboratories, was the start of a national campaign to highlight the dangers of meningitis and septicaemia and to promote the signs and symptoms of the two diseases.

It is a fact that young people are more vulnerable to the disease, especially when grouped together in large numbers such as in University Halls of Residence. Winter months also show a higher incidence of cases, a number of which will result in death or permanent disability.

To support this campaign an order form will be sent to all the UK University Welfare Officers enabling them to obtain these fridge magnets free of charge. It is hoped that the magnets will not only be useful as a functional item but also as a constant and positive way of keeping meningitis in mind, particularly within groups of young people.

"Unfortunately it is perceived generally that because children and young adults are now being vaccinated with the Meningitis C Vaccine, there is no longer a risk from this devastating disease. This is most certainly not the case, There is still no vaccine to protect against the most common form of the disease, Group B," said Steve Dayman, Operations Officer for the Spencer Dayman Meningitis Laboratories Charity. "We are appealing to all parents, who have loved ones at University, to obtain one of these magnets for their Halls of Residence."

To obtain an 'Awareness Fridge Magnet' send a stamped address envelope to the Spencer Dayman Meningitis Laboratories, Fundraising Office, 25 Cleevewood Road, Downend, Bristol, BS16 2SF