Viking DNA tests in Cumbria (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Viking DNA tests in Cumbria

3:57pm Thursday 29th January 2009 in News By Rachel Ryan

RESIDENTS are being invited to take part in a study to see if viking blood once ran through their ancestors veins.

Scientists are undertaking a study to map the extent of Viking ancestory in men who live in the north of England and are looking for volunteers for the study.

Researchers want to recruit male volunteers whose father’s father was born in Cumbria, Lancashire, Cheshire, North Yorkshire, Durham or Northumberland.

“As well as analysing the Y chromosomes, we are also interesed in the surnames, because they are passed down the generations in the same way,” said researcher Dr Turi King.

Sampling is done by post and involves brushing the inside of the cheek and men interested should email Turi King at surnames@le.ac.uk or call 07512586493.