He was drumming up support for the planned world class diabetes and tropical diseases research centre which has as its figurehead the actor and Dundonian, Brian Cox.

Of the £17.5million to be raised there is £4million remaining, however, with the support of Tesco over the month of August they hope to make considerable progress in raising this sum.

Shoppers at Tesco’s Tayside stores will be encouraged to give generously to the campaign.

Each Tesco pay point in each Tayside store will feature a collection can for the campaign.

Welcoming Tesco’s support Sir Philip said, “I am delighted that Tesco has decided to help our campaign.

“It is very important that local businesses support our campaign as health problems such as diabetes will have an adverse effect on the Scottish economy in years to come.

“Tesco’s support has come at a crucial time for us as local support is critical for us to raise the money we need to complete the building.

“I hope that everyone in Tayside will support our endeavour by shopping in Tesco and giving generously at our collection points.”

The new centre is scheduled to be completed by 2005 and will house 260 scientists, 70 of whom will be working to understand the causes of diabetes and how to develop improved treatments.

Diabetes affects more than 12,000 people in Tayside and nearly two million people in the UK.

Diabetes is in danger of becoming the major epidemic of the developed world and it is anticipated that by 2020 more than 7% of the UK population will be affected by the disease.

Pamela Campbell, Scottish marketing director for Tesco said, “Tesco is very pleased to be able to assist Sir Philip and his campaign to build the new centre. We are confident that our support will enable the university to raise a substantial amount of money for the campaign and Tesco has agree to pledge an additional 20% to the total amount raised.”

Over the first weekend of fundraising Dundee University scientists are intent on continuing to make their presence felt at Tesco stores.

They are keen to stress, however, that they are not just there to collect cash from shoppers, but also to answer any questions members of the public might have.

The Riverside Tesco store will have somebody on duty fundraising and answering questions tomorrow between 12pm and 7pm. This will continue on Sunday from 12 – 4pm.

If you are nearer to Tesco’s Monifieth store, however, Prof Dario Alessi will be there on Sunday from 12 – 2pm.