More than 90 patients will take part in cannabis trials starting in Oxford later this month.

Although the class B drug is illegal in the UK, GW Pharmaceuticals is launching a £12m study to see if the plant can help patients with neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis.

The research, co-ordinated at the Rivermead Centre, in Abingdon Road, could lead to a prescription drug being available within two years.

Co-ordinator Dr Philip Robson, an Oxford University senior research fellow, said the trials were the third stage of their studies. It is already thought that the substance can help prevent spasm attacks.

Dr Robson said: "Cannabis is a useful anti-anxiety agent and also helps people sleep better - it's not just for pain. But it's also a pariah drug that many people won't want to take.

"The Home Office has made it clear that if we can show that there is a beneficial product, they will change the law so that patients can take it by pres- cription."

Patients who take part in the trials will be administered the cannabis under their tongues, in spray form - the most efficient way of absorbing the drug.

Anyone interested in taking part can call 01865 732269 for information.