VOLUNTEERS who have agreed to donate their blood in an attempt to trace the genetic heritage of the North-East will gather on Sunday for an experiment.

People from Northern England and the Scottish Borders are converging on the Centre For Life, in Newcastle, where a team will take samples of their blood for analysis. DNA will then be checked to determine who the region's genetic ancestors were - although the scientists will not give individual information on the genetic lineage of those taking part for ethical reasons.

Channel Four, which is working with Newcastle University on the project, will film the event for a series called DNA UK, to find out the biological influences of the waves of invaders such as Celts, Saxons, Vikings and Normans.

Dr Caroline Relton, senior research associate at the university, said: "We've had a great response so far - so many people are fascinated by their heritage and the secrets it may hold.

"However, it's important that we get lots of samples from around the region to analyse and we're still keen to welcome more volunteers along on Sunday.

Among those taking part is 44-year-old Lorraine McAuliffe, from Peterlee, County Durham, a part-time school escort for disabled children who can trace her family tree back 200 years. She said: "I believe you don't know who you really are until you find out where you come from and I've become addicted to delving into my family's past.

Organisers say they would still like to hear from more volunteers, who must be aged over 18 and able to trace both sides of their family tree back for at least two generations in the same rural area of County Durham, Teesside, Tyneside, Northumberland, Cumbria or the Scottish Borders.

Volunteers can turn up at the event, from 2pm, or call (0207) 503 8606 for details.