An assay device for determining an analyte in an aqueous sample comprises: (i)
an elongate flow matrix (6) allowing lateral transport of fluid therethrough
by capillary action, wherein the matrix comprises a liquid application zone (3)
and downstream thereof, a detection zone (8) having an immobilized capture
agent capable of directly or indirectly binding to said analyte, (ii) a wicking
member (13) placed at the downstream end of the flow matrix and having an
upstream end and a downstream end, and (iii) a time indicator (14) placed
downstream of the detection zone (8) for indicating when liquid applied
to the liquid application zone has reached the time indicator. The time indicator
comprises an indicator substance or substance combination which is capable of exhibiting
a visible color change when hydrated by the aqueous sample. The assay device is
characterized in that the time indicator (14) is arranged in contact with
the wicking member (13) at a variable position between the upstream and
downstream ends thereof to thereby permit variation of the time elapsing from the
application of the liquid until the indicator substance changes color. A method
of performing an assay for determining an analyte in a sample, comprises the steps
of flowing sample and assay liquid(s) through the flow matrix of the device such
that they reach the detection zone in a predetermined sequence, and when the time
indicator has changed color, reading the result of the assay in the detection zone.