They have suggested a skin scrape on him so they can see if there is anything there. Do you think this would be worth while? They would have to sedate him to do it. He reacted quite badly to the male vet, though is fine with the female. If I thought it would help would definitely go ahead.

Yeah I would try that, they have to know what it is before they can treat him. Have you changed his food, what was he on when you got him and is it still the same. Lots of the commercial foods have things in that can trigger allergies, like grains and fillers

He was on some god awful food when we got him. He has a high protein, grain/cereal free puppy food. I wouldn't normally switch foods straight away but did with tommy as he had loose stools with the other food. He has become more solid now and his gaining weight. He has the same high quality food our basset had when he was a pup. He has had this for 2 weeks. Have thought about slowly changing from the chicken to the salmon and potato though as some dogs can react to chicken. Is this worth a try?

If he's on a decent food now best leave him till you find out what it is, could be he's allergic to chicken,, some dogs are.

I've already said it but I'll say it again: Optrex For Infected Eyes. I've used it for dogs, cats, geese, ducks & rabbits. Will cost less than a vet and highly likely to help.
This is used by optometrists, ophthalmic medical practitioners etc. in higher concentrates. Quite mild formula in Optrex.