CIGARETTE addicts are needed to help with a research project looking at whether the manner in which a person smokes contributes to lung problems.

The University Hospital of North Tees, Stockton, is looking for volunteers, aged 40 and over, who have been smoking for at least 20 years, and is particularly interested in volunteers who may have health problems due to their smoking.

Volunteers will be asked to visit the hospital twice, for about an hour on each occasion.

On the first visit they will complete a questionnaire about their health and smoking, take part in simple breathing tests and be observed using their cigarette in relaxed conditions.

On the second visit, lung function tests will be carried out.

Travelling expenses will be paid.

Professor Philip Snashall, professor of medicine at the hospital, said: "I am hoping that we achieve a good cross-section of smokers.

"It is vital this type of research takes place. We know a lot about smoking and health, but surprisingly we know nothing about whether factors such as the amount or the depth of smoke inhalation are important to the development of the disease.

"No two people smoke in the same way, and this may be relevant to why one becomes ill and the other does not."

Anyone interested in taking part is asked to contact (01642) 624735.