BRITISH masculinity is in such a fragile state that it needs shoring up with a "men-only" chocolate bar. At least that is the premise of Nestl Rowntree's new campaign for the Yorkie.

Perhaps the company is on to something. Maybe now we will see men deserting the pub for the sweet shop, pouring out their troubles to the confectioner behind the counter.

After downing bar after bar, they will be chucked out at 5.30pm, high on sugar and looking for trouble. What sort of nightmarish society has Rowntree's unleashed?

Updated: 10:51 Wednesday, March 27, 2002