MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM -- (Marketwire) -- 11/15/09 -- UK van drivers are turning to designer underwear to improve the look of their builders' bums, according to a survey by Swinton Vans.

A survey of 3,000 van insurance customers found that 71% had invested in at least one pair of designer underpants from the likes of Dolce and Gabbana, Calvin Klein and Armani in the past year.

The poll found that 53% were conscious of their backside when bending down to carry out work, and 21% said they worked out at the gym to make sure their bum was in tip-top condition.

Builders are following in the footsteps of some of the world's most famous celebrities including Freddie Ljungberg, David Beckham, and the newly appointed Emporio Armani model Cristiano Ronaldo who have all been seen wearing designer briefs.

The most popular underwear brands for UK van drivers were:

1. Marks and Spencer

2. Calvin Klein

3. No brand

4. Armani

Thankfully, only 3% of those questioned said that they didn't where any underwear at all!

Phil Moss, Commercial Vehicle Manager at Swinton, said: "The builder's bum is the butt of many a joke, but it appears that many van drivers are starting to take the matter more seriously."

About Swinton

- Swinton Commercial is the dedicated commercial insurance division of the Swinton Group

- Swinton Commercial was awarded Commercial Lines Broker of the Year 2008 and is a finalist at the British Insurer Awards 2009

- With 580 branches nationwide Swinton is the UK's largest high street insurance retailer

- Unlike many other companies in the financial services industry, Swinton is committed to keeping its branches open for business, and part of the community

- Swinton provides a one-stop-shop for the insurance and related needs of its clients, offering home, car, caravan, business, holiday, motorbike and even classic car insurance

- With a dedicated team of advisors on hand at every branch to search a panel of insurers to offer quality cover at competitive rates