HAY fever sufferers in Dorset and Hampshire are being warned to stock up on tissues this year. Experts say that instead of the traditional cuckoos and bleating lambs, the most common sound this Spring is more likely to be coughing, nose-blowing and sneezing.

The number of people who suffer from hay fever in the UK has risen from 10-12 per cent of the population in 1965 to 15-25 per cent today.

The Woodland Trust now warns that, due to global warming, the hay fever period will be extended with more people suffering longer bouts of sneezing, itchy eyes, headaches and a runny nose.

Hotter summers and warmer winters mean that many plants, including trees and grasses, are flowering earlier and for longer - resulting in a higher and prolonged pollen count.

The latest findings are from the world's largest phenological recording survey - a study of the timing of natural seasonal events.

It seems that the warmer temperatures means that, in some parts of the country, mowing the lawn has become a year-long chore.

Although cut grass is usually too short to flower, sap allergens released by cut grass add to the woes of hay fever sufferers.

Dr Chris McCall, GP at Corfe Mullen and chairman of the Poole Primary Care Trust professional executive committee, said: "As a GP I haven't particularly noticed a significant increase in the number of people suffering from hay fever. There are people who are particularly susceptible to allergens including asthmatics."

He added that there are a number of remedies sold at pharmacies.

"Go to the local pharmacist. First they will certainly be able to help with the mild to moderate symptoms. If the symptoms really are very bad that's the time to see your own GP and get advice from them."

In Spring the Woodland Trust and the National Pollen Research Unit will be asking people to record the early flowering grasses as part of the UK Phenology Network survey.

Woodland Trust supporter Michael Fish, the Met Office senior broadcast meteorologist, said: "Higher temperatures are extending the grass flowering season.

"Like me, many more people will be condemned to longer bouts of sneezing, itchy eyes, headaches and a throbbing nose."

Professor Jean Emberlin of the National Pollen Research Unit said: "Last year the grass pollen season was exceptionally long because it was wet and warm. The season extended into August, instead of ending in July.

"Generally hay fever is affecting more and more people."