New 5p and 10p coins 'could cause skin problems'

Senior dermatologists have written to the British Medical Journal expressing health concerns about the new five and 10 pence coins being introduced by the Royal Mint.

In the letter, scientists warn the new coins could cause skins problems to people with nickel allergies.

The Royal Mint insists the new coins will not have a negative impact.

Professor David Gawkrodger is based at Sheffield University and is one of the signatories of the letter to the BMJ.

He told the BBC that while the threat is theoretical, it could pose a problem to people with eczema and dermatitis.