HUNDREDS of people with painful knee and hip joints are needed for a major research project which could help millions of sufferers.

Researchers at Newcastle University need up to 200 volunteers with early osteoarthritis of the knee.

They are also looking to recruit another 80 people who suffer severe hip pain due to osteoarthritis.

The aim of the study is to find out whether simple vitamin supplements can reduce the symptoms of knee pain - and even avoid the need for joint replacements.

Evidence from a large trial in the US suggests that people with lower levels of vitamin D in their bodies are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, which affects about 80 per cent of the population in this country.

Scientists will also be examining whether injections into the hip can slow down the disease.

Most hip patients will receive an ultrasound-guided injection of either a steroid, a lubricant or a saline solution.

Apart from easing the misery of thousands of patients, it could potentially save the NHS millions of pounds by cutting out unnecessary operations.

Dr Fraser Birrell, a senior lecturer in rheumatology at Newcastle University, leads the research team.

An expert in osteoarthritis, he runs the special interest group of the British Society of Rheumatology and advises the National Institute of Clinical Health and Excellence.

"Osteoarthritis is a common problem but difficult to treat, " the specialist said yesterday.

"Currently we do not have any treatments that can slow down the course of the disease.

In the UK, most people suffering from knee or hip osteoarthritis are only referred to hospital when they need a joint replacement operation, so conducting research can be difficult."

The knee trial is part of a nationwide study funded by the Arthritis Research Council and administered through the Medical Research Council.

By BARRY NELSON Health Editor In the North-East, the trial will be based at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, in Newcastle.

Dr Birrell and his team will use some of the most powerful scanners in the UK to measure bone density.

Kristine Aldridge, 58, from Ponteland, Northumberland, hopes to be accepted on the knee trial.

"I find it quite difficult getting around and I am getting to the stage that I will need a knee replacement, " she said.

* Patients who would like to be considered for the trial are asked to ring Kevin Short on 0191-2820070 or email Kevin.Short@ncl.ac.uk