It is another example of trying to beat cancer on more than one front

Dr Kate Law, Cancer Research Campaign

Most patients with renal cancer are given the drug Interferon-alpha, which is designed to boost the immune system.

But those taking part in the trial will also be given another immunotherapy drug, Interleukin-2 and a chemotherapy drug.

Immune system

It is hoped this combination will stimulate the immune system to recognising and destroying cancer cells, while at the same time preventing rapid re-population by any cells not killed off by the immune defences.

Renal cancer affects over 5,000 people in the UK, and is becoming more common.

A quarter of patients diagnosed with the disease have an advanced form.

These patients only survive on average for six to eight months.

Dr Martin Gore, who will co-ordinate the research, said: "This trial could prove to be a major step forward in the treatment of advanced renal cancer.

"Some of the results from recent studies have suggested that combination therapy may be of greater benefit than our current standard treatment.

"We are hopeful that our trial will prove this and that this treatment will greatly improve the quality of life for people with advanced renal cancer."

Dr Kate Law, head of research for the Cancer Research Campaign, told BBC News Online: "This research looks very interesting. It is another example of trying to beat cancer on more than one front.

"This is necessary because cancer is so good, it grows back whatever attack you use against it.

"Combination-type therapy is likely to become more and more common."

Volunteers will be recruited throughout the country by participating clinicians when they are found to be eligible for the trial.

Initial results of the study are expected to be published in approximately six years.