A Frinton woman has launched a business selling insurance to cover the costs that may arise from suffering breast cancer.

Claire Martin-Redman came up with the venture after her finance adviser brother-in-law realised there was a gap in the market for such a policy.

He created the insurance product last year but became so busy with his other business interests, Claire took over the reins.

Now, the 49-year-old former government consultant has launched Breast Assured Insurance, in conjunction with the Holloway Friendly Society.

Claire grew up in Walton and went to Tendring High School, before working in Warwickshire and then Northamptonshire, also owning a furniture business.

She returned to Frinton “for family reasons” a few years ago and needed a business idea.

“I thought how great this business would be, that it’s something more women should know is available to them,” Claire continued.

“So I’ve given it a name, made it look pretty and attractive (but it’s for men too) and now everybody wants to know about it. We each have our own story or know someone who has been affected by breast cancer,” she said.

Since starting the business, several of Claire’s family members have been diagnosed with breast cancer and so have some of her friends.

Around 1-in-8 women fall prey to breast cancer but 89% now survive. But MacMillan say while they fight the condition, people can be up to £570 a month worse off.

There are policies for men as well as women aged 18-68.

“People have told me they wish they knew there was something that covers this. Breast cancer is so common but they don’t know there is insurance to cover you against it,” Claire explained.

Policies can be used to pay out from £10,000 up to £100,000 to spend on anything from private healthcare, a family holiday, covering out of pocket expenses or even a new wig.

“It’s not an alternative to the NHS. It’s pure cash, to cover loss of earnings, childcare. It can cover all sorts of things,” Claire added.