A MOTHER changed her job with Durham Constabulary for something more creative and has not looked back since.

Three months ago Christine Robinson, from Westerton Close, Binchester Moor, Spennymoor, launched a small business making and decorating cakes for all occasions.

Her Simply Sugarcraft venture was a far cry from the work she had carried out for Durham Constabulary for the past 20 years, progressing through the clerical ranks to become a senior support manager.

The 38-year-old decided to change career when she was struggling to cope with two young children after being transferred to Chester-le-Street.

She started Simply Sugarcraft on April 6 and thanks to word of mouth her business has been booming.

"It is something I had wanted to do for a long time but it was having the courage to make the jump," she said.

"I went to night classes about 15 years ago and realised I had a talent and thoroughly enjoyed cake decorating.

"I have always been arty-crafty."

Now Mrs Robinson spends her days baking cakes and designing suitable decorations for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings and christenings.

"Business is really very good. I started with no orders and now they seem to be flying in," she said.

"Once I had made a couple of cakes I found that word of mouth helped boost orders. I also attracted a lot of business from the three craft fares I exhibited at, in Newby Hall, Ripon, Sedgefield and at the local comprehensive school."

To contact Mrs Robinson at Simply Sugarcraft call (01388) 816315.