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Researchers aim to create genetic map of UK
A TEAM of Oxford professors is hoping Dorset residents can help provide vital clues about ancient migration patterns and contribute to major breakthroughs in modern medicine.
The People of the British Isles project is coming to the county to study the genetic make-up of locals.
The aim is to produce a genetic map of the UK, which could help trace the genes involved in cancer and heart disease.
The researchers are appealing to locals who have grandparents born in the same rural locality to donate their time and a small sample of blood to contribute to this groundbreaking project, which was the focus of a Channel 4 TV series Face of Britain last year.
Organiser Tammy Day said: "To achieve our goal we plan to collect blood samples from people throughout the UK.
"The southern counties and Dorset in particular are important regions for the study. They formed the heartlands of Anglo-Saxon Wessex."
People of the British Isles will be collecting samples at St Peter's Church in High West Street, Dorchester, between noon and 5pm on Tuesday, May 13, and from 9am to noon on Wednesday, May 14.
Volunteers are asked to give around an hour of their time to fill in a questionnaire and take a 20ml blood sample. All samples will be anonymous.
To take part your grandparents on both sides of the family must have been born in the same rural area.
The project's leader, Professor Walter Bodmer, will also be giving at talk on the project following a wine reception at 6.30pm on May 13.
For more information contact Tammy Day on 01865 863819, 07914264794 or email tammy.day@clinpharm.ox.ac.uk.
You can also visit www.peopleofthebritishisles.org
12:56pm Sunday 4th May 2008
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CommentPosted by: maximus, Weymouth on 11:40pm Sun 4 May 08
Does Stratford, London count as a rural area? it must have been when my grandparents were alive.
Does Stratford, London count as a rural area? it must have been when my grandparents were alive.
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