COUNTY Durham is at the centre of pioneering international medical trials which could lead to new treatments for dyslexia and other learning disorders .

A total of 120 children aged between six and 11 at 13 primary schools across the county are being given daily food supplements containing substances known as Omega 3 and Omega 6.

The children have learning problems caused by disorders such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, hyper-activity and autism.

Another 120 children who appear to be learning normally have also been recruited.

Scientists believe that by testing both groups at the end of the six-month trial, they will prove that the supplements can improve learning ability.

Two years ago, a small group of children in Oxford saw dramatic improvements in concentration and behaviour after being given supplements containing evening primrose oil and oily fish.

The County Durham project will also see the first use in the world of a breathalyser-like device which can analyse exhalations and indicate whether a child or adult has problems with their metabolism. It is hoped that the device can be used to identify pre-school children who might benefit from supplements.

Dr Madelaine Portwood, a senior educational psychologist at Durham County Council Education Authority, helped set up the trial. She is interested in the theory that the recent rise in learning difficulties is caused by changes in diet.

She said: "The most significant change in the last 20 years has been the diet of children."

Some researchers believe that a significant proportion of those who suffer from a developmental disorder are missing vital elements in their diet, possibly exacerbated by the move away from breastfeeding and eating fresh fish, fruit and vegetables in favour of processed foods.

Dr Portwood said she hoped the County Durham study would turn out to be 'a landmark' in the treatment of developmental problems.

Andrew Westerman, headteacher at the 480-pupil Timothy Hackworth Primary School, Shildon, said he was optimistic that the supplements would help his pupils 'to achieve their very best'.

Parents had been very supportive and the children were enthusiastic about the research project. He said: "We can support the experts and help to put County Durham on the map."