A MOTHER with a taste for novelty has branched out in her first business venture at the age of 37.

Maxine Moore, from Darlington, has set up Novelty Avenue selling novelty items, including Betty Boop hairbrushes, novelty mugs and cake-shaped candles.

Ms Moore decided to set up the company after she got divorced in January.

She had given up work when she married, aged 23, to become a housewife.

She said: "I wanted something to do for myself that I got pleasure from.

"I wanted to do something for my girls and they do give you that push."

As all the stock is imported from the US, the business, based in Darlington, is the only outlet for the items in the North-East.

This week, the company is on the upper floor of the Cornmill Centre.

The company also organises hostess parties.

Novelty Avenue will be in the Cornmill for the rest of this week, as well as the weeks commencing June 26, July 24 and August 28, and dates later in the year.

For more information, or to book a party, call Ms Moore on 07886 368496.