CHILDREN in Hampshire who suffer from hayfever are needed to help take part in clinical trials of a drug that could prevent them developing asthma.

Researchers are appealing for 100 children to take part in the study at Southampton General Hospital’s Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility – the UK’s chief site in the European wide five-year study involving a total of 650 children.

The study will investigate whether or not a tablet already approved in Europe for treating the grass pollen allergy can halt the onset of the chronic lung disease.

Youngsters aged four to 11 will either receive the allergy tablet or a placebo.

Dr Graham Roberts said: “We know the drug increases the body’s tolerance to grass pollen and reduces allergic symptoms but we hope to find out whether the drug, if taken early enough, can prevent children with hayfever going on to develop asthma.

To find out more call Michelle Casey on 023 8079 6322 or email michelle.casey@suht.swest.nhs.uk.