IN the "why didn't someone think of that before?" category -- there's a new product about to launched which stops ladders in tights.

Elizabeth Chantree has patented Runaway, which is an instant runner stop spray for tights.

Now, she's set to launch a vending machine operation stocking her product in 100 outlets like hotels, petrol stations and bars.

In fact, she's already sold over 250,000 of them since being awarded a prize at the British Female Inventor of the Year Award 2000 in February.

All of which proves that not only is it worth doing your homework properly when you do have a good idea, but that getting it patented is vital if you're actually going to make money out of it.

To find out more about patenting, take a look at The Patent Office website at www.patent.gov.uk or ring the central inquiry unit on 08459-500-505.