A MAN who has lived with HIV for nine years is speaking out to help dispel the fear and stigma that surrounds the disease on World AIDS Day.

Ant Babajee remembers the day when he was told on January 2 2007 that he was HIV positive after visiting a clinic for a test.

The 38-year-old wants to share his story to encourage more people to get tested and realise that being HIV positive does not mean 'your life is over.'

He said: "I am a firm believer in not worrying about changing the past but changing your future.

"I cannot stress the importance of regular testing to know your status because you could not only be putting your own health at risk but also others.

"Of course it was a shock when I was told I was HIV positive but in a way it was a relief to know what was wrong with me.

"Finding out if you are positive earlier, is like with everything, you can be treated and live a happy life."

Now the Oxford Brookes graduate is returning to the city tonight to take part in a panel that will discuss The Representation of HIV/aids in Media & Art for World AIDS Day.

Mr Babajee, a trustee of Terrence Higgins Trust a charity which supports people living with HIV and AIDS, added: "The event has been organised by Oxford University LGBTQ+ Society and is being held at Wadham College.

"It is important that we keep the dialogue surrounding HIV and AIDS in the public domain so it does not get forgotten about.

"Of course medicine has come a long way and there are some fantastic treatments out there, but sadly people do still die from the disease.

"This is why World AIDS Day is so important, we need to spread the word about getting checked early and getting supported if you are found to be positive."

Although figures have not been released for 2016, last year there were nearly 500 people living in Oxfordshire who suffer from the disease.

The Oxford branch of Terrence Higgins Trust will be out today at Oxford station, handing out red ribbons and information to commuters to raise awareness and funds.

Mara Ranieri Davey, centre manager in Oxford, said: “The stigma that surrounds HIV cannot be underestimated. It stops people from getting tested and going on treatment.

“That’s why we’re telling people if you test positive, effective treatment means you can live as long as anyone else, and when the amount of the virus in your blood is reduced to undetectable levels, this means you cannot pass on HIV.

"Testing puts you in control and is nothing to be feared, so we’re encouraging local people here to find out more about HIV and sexual health, and get tested this week.”