IT'S the demise of Blob the Builder.

As the south basked in warm sunshine, scores of Hampshire workmen were told to cover up by bosses at construction firm Bluestone - and they could face disciplinary action if they go topless.

But the new ruling is not an attempt to scrub up the image of the scruffy, sweaty builder with a belly hanging over his belt.

Bosses say it's part of their "Work Safe-Home Safe" policy to prevent skin cancer.

Ian Bennett, site manager at Bluestone's extension to Southampton University's Hartley Library, in University Road, said: "We bring the lads to work and we protect them from materials that we use on site.

"But until now nothing has been done to protect them from the environment they're working in - the sun being part of that.

"We have a responsibility to protect them as much as we can and I think everyone understands what we're trying to do."

The Fareham-based company is operating a zero-tolerance policy towards the baring of builders' chests and although Mr Bennett denied that sunseeking strippers would be sacked, he said: "We would encourage them to comply."

Among Bluestone staff, the topless ban has been well received, with workers keen to avoid frazzling in the sun day after day.

Site engineer Chris Dowle, 36, from Sholing, said: "I've been telling colleagues for years they'll turn into a saddlebag with eyes if they don't cover up.

"I keep my factor 30 in the office and they all laugh at me.

"But we're out in the sun all day and we can't get away from it. I'm all for this rule."

Martin Doulton, 35, from Bitterne Park, didn't think going topless was cruel on the eyes of passers-by, but said he backed the ban.

"We don't get much reaction from the public unless they're complaining about our singing," he said. "I think it's fair enough to ask people to wear a T-shirt."

But 21-year-old Ashley Cooper, from Portsmouth, said the ban could be a problem for some site sun worshippers.

"When it's sunny we should be allowed to go topless," he said.

"But if it's going to cause health and safety problems I'm happy with it."