A research project into an ecologically friendly woodworm eradication system that does not use chemicals has won a £45,000 Smart Research award.

The research is being carried out by Simon Firullo of Surbiton who is now working with the University of Southampton to see if his pest control system is feasible.

Mr Firullo believes this will be the first chemical-free woodworm eradicator and said: “If I am proved right, on a commercial level it could be huge.”

He is reluctant to divulge details about the new system which he claims has many advantages over current woodworm control. “Seventy per cent of homes in the UK have woodworm and our system gives immediate results without chemicals.

&#8220Seventy per cent of homes in the UK have woodworm and our system gives immediate results without chemicals. On a commercial level it could be huge”

Simon Firullo

“Chemical treatments are limited, ineffective asnd cannot penetrate timber deeply, which means woodworm can survive for three years in wood after treatment.

“Our system is environmentally friendly and has a huge commercial potential worldwide. Thanks to this award and grant we’ve now been given the chance to do it.”