12 February 2007: Men in Tights

One of France's leading hosiery makers is about to launch a new line for men -- pantyhose (that's tights, to you and me).

The company claims it is responding to "increasing demand from male clients".

The garments will differ from tights for women in that they will have bigger feet, a larger belt, and - of course - an opening in the front. They will be available in "sheer" or "satin".

But SaintFM's research department can report some scepticism on the internet about the likely success of this innovation. In a posting on one forum a respondent wrote "Why create pantyhose for men when women's tights are fine?".