A MOTHER-OF-THREE, who is having a baby for her childless best friend, told of her delight yesterday.

Bronwen Williamson insisted that her decision to become a surrogate mother was "ethically right" and is looking forward to the birth of the baby girl in April.

The 39-year-old, who lives in Sunderland with husband John, said: "You can't put a price on the pleasure we have had from our three sons and to pass that on to someone else is wonderful."

Legal paperwork for the couple's friends to adopt the baby, following the birth at Sunderland Royal Hospital, has been completed.

And although Mrs Williamson has up to six months to change her mind, she is adamant that she does not feel maternal towards the baby.

"All I will be thinking when I have her is how wonderful it will be to think you have done something for someone who can't have a child. That will be my reward," she said.

"It isn't as if we won't see her again because she will be like my niece and we'll see her two or three times a year."

The childless couple from Blackpool - Phil 40, and his wife, Jennifer - have tried for seven years to have a baby. No money will be exchanged when Mrs Williamson hands over her baby girl.

Mr Williamson, 47, who works in a Darlington call centre, said: "It isn't our baby, it's theirs. She's a bit like an oven and she's cooking it for them."

Mrs Williamson plans on having an epidural for a pain-free birth and does not foresee any problems in the future, despite admitting that she once longed for a baby girl.

"I think it's ethically right. I wouldn't have a baby for just anybody. She will be brought up with the same values as I have," she said.

The part-time team leader at Lloyds TSB Sunderland call centre, took eight months to decide to become a surrogate mother.

However, she was shocked at becoming pregnant so quickly through her DIY method, using a syringe containing Phil's sperm.

She said her sons - Dane, 13, Ashton, 11, and eight-year-old Grant - are all happy with the situation.