Isis underwear range launched by Ann Summers

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Andrew Feinberg

White House Correspondent

Ann Summers may want to rethink the name of their latest range of lingerie, which will appear in shop windows and online under the name of Isis.

The complete range of lingerie, varying from plunge bras to thongs, shares its name with the extremist group otherwise known as Islamic State, formerly known as Isis (the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria).

The Islamic terrorist group were formed in early 2004 and have made significant gains in the Syrian civil war, declaring the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant in April 2013 and the caliphate in June.

However, Ann Summers’ head office chose the name Isis after the ancient Egyptian goddess of love, before the Islamic group were widely known.

"We thought up the name over six months ago," an Ann Summer's employee told The Independent, wishing to remain anonymous. “It wasn’t until all the PR was done for the portfolio when the name meant something else. It was too late to change it.”

Ann Summers apologised for any misunderstanding and said they did not intend cause offence.

A spokesperson for Ann Summers said: “Range names for our products are chosen far in advance of the collections landing in-stores and online. In this instance, the inspiration behind this range name was taken from the Ancient Egyptian goddess Isis.

"We acknowledge the unfortunate timing of this product launch in our store windows, however we in no way support or condone any act of terrorism or violence. We apologise for any offence caused.”

The line comes just days after the execution of American photojournalist, James Foley, by Isis members.