THE COMPANY that created the "Snowman" advert for Irn- Bru is behind a new campaign aimed at keeping people of all ages safe from flu this winter.

The £475,000 health campaign by the Leith agency aims to make sure everyone at risk gets themselves protected as the cold sets in.

And the government hopes the animated ads will boost the uptake of this year's vaccine.

About 70% of Scots over 65 have a flu vaccination each year to protect them from the latest strains of the virus.

But fewer than half of younger people at high risk from conditions including heart disease, diabetes and breathing problems take up the offer of a jab.

People in high risk groups who contract the virus could find themselves in a hospital bed and in some cases the complications can kill.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: "It's vital that as we approach the winter months, those at greater risk are prepared.

"It's not just a bad cold for those in at-risk' groups, it really can - as our campaign says - turn on you."

Health experts fear previous campaigns left younger patients thinking that vaccination was only for "old people" while many patients don't go for a jab when they feel well - exactly the time when they should be vaccinated.