TWO Hampshire mum’s have ditched their day jobs it to start their own business.

Gemma French, a 41-year-old deputy head teacher, and Abi Webber, a 36-year-old communications manager, both from Swanmore, made the move to set up the company Fox and Kit Gift Co. in a bid to make their working lives more flexible.

Gemma, who will be leaving her post at Ludlow Junior School in Southampton this summer, said: “Whilst knowing we were both determined and motivated to be successful and keen to promote a strong work ethic for our children, we also wanted greater flexibility and more opportunities to be involved in their schooling and after-school activities.

“It was over cups of tea and the odd glass of wine, during catch-ups at sports days and birthday parties, when we realised we both had the desire to set up our own business.

“Informal chats became weekly meetings and after months of hard work, Fox & Kit Gift Co. was born.”

The business creates luxury gift boxes for women and babies, themed around a book, colour or style.

Gemma said: “We had found in common an excitement for finding the perfect gift for loved ones and often finding ourselves swooning over toys and clothes for babies. Soon after came the easy decision to add women’s gifts to our collection.”

Gemma played down any fears over leaving a steady job to set up a new business. She said: “Having been in education for 20 years and in my role as a senior leader, I feel I have developed many of the skills and qualities needed to run a successful business.

“I also wanted a new challenge. We are ambitious, determined women and so launching Fox & Kit Gift Co. is an exciting adventure we are very much looking forward to.”