CONCERNED parents in York are continuing to sign up to a single vaccine clinic that is being run for the second time this weekend.

Demand for the single measles, mumps and rubella vaccines has grown as local parents seek an alternative to the controversial MMR jab. More than 120 children are expected to be vaccinated in York over the weekend - at a mobile clinic run by London-based Direct Remedies. The Government, however, insists that MMR is safe and there are no proven links between the jab and autism or bowel disease. Single jabs can only be administered privately.

The Direct Remedies clinic first visited York last month after organisers realised there was nowhere else in the city for children to receive the jabs.

About 60 children were vaccinated then, many of whom will return at the weekend to receive their next injection.

This time they will be joined by a further 60 youngsters.

Leigh Scully, Direct Remedies' northern co-ordinator, said she was still being inundated with queries and bookings.

She said: "People are all just so grateful because there is nowhere else for them to turn.

"York is definitely our biggest clinic and because it's the second time we will be visiting York the numbers have effectively doubled.

"We have got a few people coming over from Scarborough and other surrounding areas so people are prepared to travel.

"In order for us to keep going in York we have to have new people to see every time.

"So we should be okay for at least four to five months but after that we will have to see. Hopefully by then the Government will be offering parents the choice of single vaccines or MMR."

A full programme of vaccines costs £255.

The second clinic will take place at the Novotel, Fishergate, York this Saturday and Sunday. For more details and to book phone Leigh Scully on 0191 289 5650.

Updated: 08:27 Wednesday, October 16, 2002