LATEST figures have revealed that more than 15,000 people in Southampton signed up to take part in medical trials.

Between 2010 and 2011, 13,464 people were recruited to help with clinical studies at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, while Southampton City PCT recruited 2,557.

Dr Jonathan Sheffield, chief executive of the National Institute for Health Research Clinical Research Network, said: “Clinical research is a vital part of the work of the NHS, because it is how doctors compare the current best treatment, with what could work better.

“I would encourage everyone to be more demanding of their doctors and NHS Trusts, and ask about opportunities to take part in suitable clinical studies as part of their treatment.”