A new survey has found that Scottish parents are the shyest in Britain when it comes to talking to their children about sex.

A healthcare's study found more than 27% find sex the most difficult subject to discuss with their child, compared to just 11% in the south-east of England.

More than a third of parents, the highest level in any part of the country, said they had not discussed puberty with their children aged between 10 to 15.

The Talking Puberty study, commissioned by Norwich Union, questioned 252 children aged 10 to 15 years and 244 parents.

Teenage years

It also revealed dads found delicate topics most difficult to talk about.

Three quarters of parents assumed their children found out about puberty at school.

However, nine in 10 children thought their parents were good role models and 92% believed they explained puberty well.

Nicole Hockley, communications manager for Norwich Union Healthcare, said: "The teenage years bring with them their own unique challenges for teens, but also for parents.

"Our research shows that families are more open and honest than ever before, but parents still need help and guidance in broaching sensitive topics with their children."

According to the study, more than half of mums and dads north of the border - again more than anywhere else in the country - also wished they had more information about the best way to broach sensitive issues with their children.