Would you buy an over the counter paternity test? We asked shoppers in Honiton.

EASt Devon consumers are concerned that not enough support will be available for those buying paternity kits over the counter.

The sale of the DNA testing kits could become as normal as buying a pregnancy test as Boots becomes the first outlet in the country to sell them.

The kits are on sale at �29.99, but there is an additional fee of �129 for laboratory results.

Shoppers in Honiton are not completely sold on the idea.

Rachel Yeo, 24, of Honiton, said: “I suppose it would save a lot of hassle and would be a more private way of doing it.

“People who buy the kits know what they sign up for.

“I think more people are likely to do it if they can get the kits over the counter.”

Sarah Hughes, 31, of Honiton, said: “I don’t really agree with it.

“It should be something done through doctors or hospitals.

“The results can be life-changing for everyone and it should not be something done lightly.”

Joanne Edwards, 46, of Honiton, said: “I can understand if people want it done in a hurry, but I don’t think anyone is going to be benefiting from it apart from the speed of it.

“There should be guidance and I think people need advice on anything like that.”

Jan Hebditch, 48, said: “It is a lot of money to pay and having to pay extra on top. I think people still need help dealing with the issues involved.

“I don’t see the point of it – it is too costly for the ordinary person to be able to afford.

“I think people need to be able to afford to go through the proper channels and have counselling.”

Sarah Hardwicke, 36, of Honiton, said: “No, I don’t think it is a good idea because, for some people, it is a massive deal to try and find out, not just for the mother but the father and the child as well.

“I think you need support and counselling to be there, rather than people just popping into Boots.

“It is expensive and out of reach for everyday people.”

Martin Holder, 58, of Cotleigh, said: “I am slightly concerned about it.

“People need professional advice.

“I think it should be done through the proper channels as it can be quite disruptive to families.”