Scientists have created the world's first non-stick chewing gum.  Having had the stuff on the bottoms of shoes or the knees of my pants when sitting at a table, I say, "What a great idea!"

Washed off pavements by rain alone, it could save millions in cleaning costs - and put an end to the days of having to scrape discarded gum from shoes, clothing and even out of the hair.

Said to be tasty and chewy without being sticky, the Rev 7 gum , as it is called, could be on sale early next year.

Its development, by scientists at Bristol University, could end a 25-year world-wide quest to find a low-adhesion chewing gum.

Made of a mixture of synthetic rubber, chalk, wax, sugar and flavourings, chewing gum's stickiness comes from an adhesive compound also used in car tyres.

The scientists say they have managed to replace this with a non-stick synthetic material.

Sure, it's a great idea, but as I read the mixture of the gum I'm not so sure it's something I want to put in my mouth.