Ref. 24393-12MUM Sara Franklin always knew something was wrong with daughter, Meghan, who is now nine.

But she was only diagnosed with ADHD two years ago.

Mrs Franklin, 39, of Lismore Road, Highworth, welcomed news about the test.

She said: "It was some time before doctors actually diagnosed my little girl with ADHD.

"I knew something was wrong because she couldn't sit still for five minutes.

"Unfortunately, a lot of parents are just dismissed as whingers."

Mrs Franklin, a member of the Swindon ADHD Support Group, reckons the tests will spare other families a lot of unnecessary heartache.

"I can understand the doctors' position," she said.

"It is hard to tell whether a child is simply immature for his or her age or is suffering from ADHD.

"But if this test works there could be an end to all that.

"The whole process of diagnosis will not be as lengthy."

Meghan's symptoms are controlled using the drug, Ritalin.

About 300,000 people in the UK are prescribed the medication, making it the most popular drug for ADHD.

It is a mild stimulant, an amphetamine that works on the central nervous system to improve the concentration.

For children like Meghan it has proven to have a calming effect, allowing them to cope more effectively in social situations.

Mrs Franklin said her daughter, who is a pupil at Northview County Primary School, in Highworth, is now making progress.

"Meghan is one of the lucky ones," she said.

"A lot of parents will slate what I'm about to say, but we have been treated very well by everyone since she was diagnosed.

"The Local Education Authority and the school have been brilliant.

"They provide an extra 15 hours a week of lessons for her, which has definitely helped."