A CAMPAIGN to safeguard the vital research work done by Southampton-based charity Leukaemia Busters is gathering momentum.

More than 3,600 people have signed the charity's petition opposing a proposed European Union ruling which would see the cost of clinical trials soar from less than £50,000 to £1m.

It would mean crucial studies into helping child leukaemia sufferers would cease as the directive would foist exorbitant costs on to small research units, making trials prohibitively expensive.

The ruling would apply the same standards to non-commercial trials as those set up for profit-making pharmaceutical companies mass-testing drugs for the open market.

Fundraising manager Nigel Impey said: "We're currently at 3,600 signatures on the petition, but are receiving hundreds daily now and expect to have hit the 5,000 mark by beginning of next week, at the latest.

"The paper petition is now starting to come back to us in droves as well."

To sign the petition, visit the Leukaemia Busters' website at www.leukaemiabusters.org.uk.