WITH summer just around the corner, one in three of us will be affected by some form of allergy as the season peaks - and now your choice of car can help.

According to recent figures, more than 20 million people in the UK suffer an allergy, including four out of every 10 children.

In a survey by national charity Allergy UK, 25 per cent of respondents endure nasal allergies and almost half are victims of hayfever.

Ford's Focus C-Max is helping customers create an allergy-friendly environment, having just been awarded an official "allergy tested" Seal of Approval from the British Allergy Foundation and German testing organisation TUV - the first-ever such accolade for a car.

Experts from both organisations have certified that the Focus C-Max (pictured) interior consists exclusively of materials that reduce the risk of allergies to the lowest possible level.

Extensive, scientifically-verifiable tests were conducted to analyse cabin air quality and the concentration of organic substances.

Components likely to have direct and prolonged skin contact, such as seat covers, floor mats and seat belts, were also dermatologically tested.

During the C-Max's development, Ford avoided materials such as latex or nickel, which can provoke allergic reactions with allergy-sensitive people, while Focus C-Max is also fitted with a high-performance filter to prevent pollen accessing the car's interior.

Chief executive of the British Allergy Foundation, Muriel Simmons, said: "We're thrilled that Ford is so seriously responding to the issue of allergies in children and adults."

Ford's Derrick Kuzak said: "Allergies are still underestimated. They affect the lives of a great number of people of all ages.

"That is why Ford will continue to expand this initiative. It will not happen overnight, but we're committed to having allergy tested interiors in all our cars."

For more information, call your local dealer, Gowrings Ford, on 01256 697880.