The magnetic appeal of a Croydon mum's simple idea to celebrate the birth of her daughter has seen it spiral into a full-time business.

Joanna Leapman, 31, from Upper Norwood marked the birth of her baby Lara at Mayday Hospital by turning photographs of the tot into fridge magnets to give out at her baby shower.

People were so taken with the magnets that she was asked to make them for her friend's babies and soon the idea snowballed into personalised keyrings, badges and cards.

Having given up her job as a journalist to have Lara, she has now set up her own company Babymagnet so other proud parents can spread the news about their babies' birth.

She said: "I started making the magnets in between night-time feeds when Lara was a few weeks old. I had no idea it would turn into a full-time business but it's ideal because it means I can spend more time with Lara."

The magnets come in two types, round button or square flexible magnets, and there are now custom made key-rings, badges or photograph greeting cards.

And the business has moved on even further after Joanna juggled nappy changing with teaching herself web design. Her new website www.babymagnets.com has details and pictures of all the Babymagnet products.

She added: "People love to see photos of your baby and personalised gifts, because they are so much more special. They're a great stocking filler or perfect for sending out to thank friends for gifts for your child."

To place an order or get a copy of the brochure call 020 8771 6951 or visit the website.

December 5, 2001 17:30