Vanessa McNevin, who previously worked at Bishop Wulstan school, is the first woman in the country to market the 'guardakid' smart id device.

Vanessa, a mother-of-two, was searching for franchise opportunities after leaving the Oak Street School and discovered that the device is commonly used in America.

It works by storing information such as facts and pictures. If a child goes missing a parent can then hand the device to the authorities who will be able to pinpoint who they are looking for and print off posters.

Vanessa said: "When a child goes missing the first two hours are critical and this is where the device really helps - it tells people exactly what to look for right away.

"As a parent I know that this is something you feel will never happen to you but 120,000 children are reported missing in the UK every year.

"In America the smart id stick has become a way of life."

Vanessa has been visiting schools in Rugby to teach pupils and parents about the device which can be bought online.

She added: "It's actually very simple to use and in America has been in use for over a decade. The data on the stick is totally secure - I think the FBI attempted to hack into one and even they failed!

"It's not just children's data you can put in the stick - you can also put details about pets and other vulnerable family members.

"I am confident this will catch on over here in a big way. It brings peace of mind and as a parent that means so much."

To find out more about the guardakid smart id device visit www.guardakid.org.uk