False claims of being the long-lost heir to the family estate could be a thing of the past with a North-East firm's futuristic will service.

Sunderland-based company Complement Genomics is offering the chance to keep your DNA on file along with your will - heading off those fake paternity claims when you're no longer here to fight your corner.

Said Dr Neil Sullivan, the company's chief executive: "The new Willcheck service is a great step forward in family relationship analysis and should reduce the need for clandestine activities of for sample collection after death, when emotions are obviously heightened."

Top Formula One racing driver Ayrton Senna, who had no children, left an estate worth £110m when he died in May 1994.

Former model Marcella Praddo came forward to claim the Brazilian was the father of her daughter Victoria and Senna's relatives were forced to give DNA samples to settle the claim. The tests eventually proved to be negative.

In addition to Willcheck, the company has launched a sister service, Genecheck, where you can store your DNA for later testing of genetic disorders.

Louise Allcroft, one of the company' directors, said: "Not only can your DNA be used for clearing up inheritance disputes, but, with the consent of the donor or executor, you will be able to interrogate the sample for genetic disorders using our Genecheck service."

Clients are sent a kit containing a brush, which is used to swab the mouth, instructions and a consent form.

The sample is then sent to an accredited laboratory and encapsulated onto special paper which can be kept in the client's home or by the company.

The company, which was set up two years ago, says no-one else will have access to genetic information and clients choose who they will disclose their DNA to.