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Locals Asked to Help in Nationwide Genetic Study at the New Forest Show

The People of the British Isles is a project funded by the Wellcome Trust, the UK’s largest charity, to create a genetic map of the

. The aim of the project is to contribute to medical research of widespread common diseases such as heart problems, cancer, diabetes and mental illness so that those at risk can be identified and helped.

The New Forest & Hampshire County Show has donated this charity a free stand at the Show in July to give rural residents the chance to take part in this project and help improve the health of the population in the future. This genetic map will also be useful to investigate historical movements of peoples such as Anglo-Saxons, Vikings and their impact on Ancient Britains.

To create this genetic map the charity is looking for volunteers who have all 4 grandparents born in the same area, to ensure that the volunteer is representative of the region. This is targeting people who were all born in the same rural area for example the same Parish, County, or roughly within a 30- 40 mile radius.

Anyone over 18 can help by donating their DNA through giving a small sample of blood. If you want to volunteer to help in this very worthwhile project, come and visit the People of the British Isles stand at the New Forest & Hampshire County Show.

For more details or to help now, ring Tammy Day (above) on 01865 863 819 or e mail her at tammy.day@clinpharm.ox.ac.uk

The New Forest & Hampshire County Show will be held at New Park Brockenhurst from Tuesday 24^th to Thursday 26^th July. Look at www.newforestshow.co.uk for information, discounted tickets and the best way to travel to this popular event, by car or let the train take the strain. Tickets also available by ringing 01590 622409.