Here's a solution ... no sweat

It was a topic about which Tony Blair became famously hot under the collar at a party conference - his sweating.

With perspiration soaking through his shirt, he waved at the party faithful in Brighton from the podium, revealing sweat patches under his arms. Whether it was through his passion or the heat of the lights the consensus was clear - the image was not a good one.

Now a company believes it can come to Mr Blair's rescue with the development of a fabric that promises to discourage sweating. Lintrend, based in Northern Ireland, today launches its Coolfix technology, a chemical process that it claims makes cotton, linen and other clothing cooler to wear.

Fred Sloan, the company's technical director, said it was a chance conversation with another "heavily perspiring" politician - the interior minister of Oman - that inspired him. After eight years in development, Mr Sloan believes he has a solution. He said: "Coolfix treated fabrics will be stronger, last longer, stay fresher, be easier to clean and perform better than other finished fabrics."

The company said Coolfix gives fabrics a thermostatic quality that regulates body temperature - rather like the effect of putting alcohol on the skin. Trials have been conducted with Coolfix being used in the making of traditional head-gear worn by Arab men.

One cup of coffee before Gordon spills the beans
Taking a (tax-free) gamble on the big speech
WIN champagne with the Budget!
What's on your budget wish list?