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The activation was launched at London's Victoria Station yesterday (14 January). Passers-by had to step up to a screen and smile before the six-foot installation poured out a helping of porridge topped with Lyle’s Golden Syrup.

The custom-built 'Smyles' machine utilises smile-recognition software that uses a webcam to detect facial characteristics. Once a smile is identified, a series of software and hardware connections activate a pump that vends a portion from five kilograms of syrup.

The idea was conceived following research commissioned by Lyle’s that revealed a third of Brits fail to smile before 10am.

Sara Harrison, brand licensing manager at Tate & Lyle Sugars, said: "A cold and dark January can be a tough month, so to help Brits kick start their day in the right way by boosting their mood and enjoying the benefits of a warming breakfast, we're encouraging the nation to smile in exchange for a bowl of porridge with a generous helping of Lyle's Golden Syrup. It's wonderful how a simple smile can instantly make you feel better and its contagious effect on others."

The activation is targeting commuters in Birmingham and Cambridge railways stations today and tomorrow (15-16 January).

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