British test tube baby pioneer Professor Robert Edwards was awarded the Nobel Prize in medicine.

Cambridge physiologist Prof Edwards, now 85, and the late Patrick Steptoe, a Gynecologic surgeon developed a technique in which IVF eggs are fertilized outside the body and implanted in the uterus. Dr Steptoe died in 1988.

The pioneering work led to the birth of the first test tube baby, Louise Brown, in 1978.

Mike MacNamee, managing director of brook Hall, near Cambridge, the IVF clinic Professor Edwards set up, said:''Bob Edwards is one of our greatest scientists. His work of inspiration in the early 60s led to a breakthrough in improving the lives of millions of people worldwide.

Bob Edwards,''is held in great affection by all who had worked with him and was treated by him. I'm really happy that my great mentor, friend and colleague acknowledged in this way.''

Prof Edwards said:''The most important thing in life is a child to have. Nothing is more special than a child.''

One of the highlights was the discovery that 1,000 IVF babies were born on stream since Louise Brown Hall.

He recalls the pleasure of relaying this page to a seriously ill Dr. Steptoe, shortly before the death of Dr. Steptoe. ''I'll never forget the look of joy in his eyes,''said Prof Edwards.

A spokesman for Professor Edwards said he was good enough to give interviews.