FOUR strapped-for-cash housewives have launched an unusual business to beat the downturn – adopted pickled onions.

Diane Connor, of Victoria Hill Road, Hextable, decided to set up adoptapickledonion.com after a few too many drinks with her friends.

She said: "We were sitting in a pub having a laugh talking about charities and different things you can adopt.

"Someone said 'you might as well adopt a pickled onion' and we all started laughing."

News Shopper: Housewives in financial pickle set up unusual business

The 46-year-old has spent £3,500 developing her idea and has recruited friends Mandy Parker, Sarah Surry and Dawn Aylmer, who all live in West Hill, Dartford.

Colin Hawes, of Tyrrell Avenue, Sidcup, is also on board to set up the website.

Mr Hawes said: “It’s all really good fun. It’s been a long journey from start to finish but it’s all coming together.”

They have launched a £6.99 gift package, which includes a greetings card, adoption certificate and postcard from your chosen pickled onion.

News Shopper: Housewives in financial pickle set up unusual business

Mrs Connor, a mother-of-four, said: "The idea is the pickled onions are saved by the Pickle Police. These onions go to a retreat to get over their ordeal and they get a chosen career path."

People can buy one of seven packages, which range from a solider and a chef to a beach vendor and exotic dancer.

Mrs Connor said: "I hope to make millions. I'm not stopping until I do.

"Moonpig is huge and this is a similar, smaller scale."

She added: "I have got a business brain and I know it's a good idea. It was pushed on by the fact my husband works seven days a week to keep a roof above our head.

"We have had a hard couple of years which has driven the business forward."

The women hope to create merchandise for their product including a computer game and furry onions to replace dice in cars.

Mrs Connor said: "We want everyone in Dartford wearing 'I have saved a pickled onion' T-shirt."

For information, visit adoptapickledonion.com