NESTLE Rowntree is to launch a new version of its children's favourite Smarties - as a chocolate bar.

The six-chunk bar, packed full of mini Smarties, will be available from next month in both milk and white chocolate versions. The York-based company is planning a £4m launch package, including TV adverts, to promote the product.

Nestl plans to target it at children and adults alike, believing it to be a unique product which can bridge the gap between "play" and "pleasure".

"Smarties block will be a quality mainstream offering in the block chocolate market, already revolutionised this year by the launch of Nestl Double Cream," said a spokesman.

Updated: 12:34 Tuesday, November 12, 2002