Manchester: A diet high in oily fish helps protect the skin from the sun, researchers at Manchester University have discovered.

In a test 42 people were given supplements equivalent to eating fish three times a week, and after just one month their skin was less likely to burn. Another group who suffered from allergies doubled their skin protection after six months.

Lead researcher, Dr Lesley Rhodes said eating oily fish which contains omega 3 fatty acids helped protect skin DNA from damage and the discovery would have a significant effect on preventing skin cancer.