BUSINESSWOMAN Gemma Duffy has put her creative talents to good use by designing inspirational mugs to raise funds for Willowbrook Hospice.

It has been a labour of love for the Eccleston mum-of-one, 32, whose own mother was cared for at the hospice when she had cancer almost 12 years ago.

The former De La Salle pupil, who has a business degree, created a range of unique and personalised mugs which are on sale at Willowbrook's Living Well centre on Borough Road.

Gemma's mum Susan was cared for by Macmillan nurses and at Willowbrook before sadly losing her brave battle against cancer at the age of 42 in December 2004.

Gemma, who has a five-year-old son, said: "The staff at Willowbrook were wonderful with my mum. They were so kind and caring - nothing was too much trouble and they made my mum feel safe and comfortable.

"The hospice also gave my family, father and I a great deal of care and support during this difficult time, which is something I will never forget."

She added: "Designing and selling the mugs is my way of helping to raise funds for the hospice so that they can continue to care for other people and their families."

Gemma started her business after her son was born and now employs two members of staff to help her as, she says, her vinyl wall messages are proving popular with schools, companies and families.

She said: "I'm asked for all sorts of things - from inspiring quotes and song lyrics, to mission statements and logos.

"From the wall art, I went on to canvases and cup work. I really enjoy my work as it combines creativity with my business background."

Half of the cost of each Willowbrook mug - which bear designs varying from the humorous to the inspirational - will go to the hospice's fundraising efforts.

For more details of Gemma's businesses, go to cupsuk.com or wallartdesigner.co.uk.