A NORTH London man has gone into business selling gifts as diverse as pieces of the moon and visits to the wreck of The Titanic.

Mr James Bowler of Aldenham Grove, an ex-pupil of St Columba's School in St Albans, Hertfordshire, is one of three directors running an online marketing business, www.earnitburnit.co.uk

As well as conventional gifts like champagne and hampers, his website tempts potential customers to blow £28,500 to visit The Titanic by submersible vessel at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean.

Alternatively for £24,500 punters can visit the wrecked German battleship The Bismarck, or a mere £18,950 will buy a trip to underwater volcanos off the Canary Isles.

Customers with more modest pockets might choose to invest in an acre of the Moon, Mars or Venus, all retailing at £19.95.

With Mr Bowler's firm acting as an agent, the plots are "sold" by an American, Mr Dennis Hope, who laid claim to the astronomical bodies in 1980, and the purchaser get a certificate as well as a copy of the "laws" governing the territory in question.

Mr Bowler's website warns of the difficulties of visiting the property, but tempts potential buyers with the prospect of mineral rights.

The website has made a few sales already, so far mostly motor-racing days rather than trips to underwater wrecks or bits of planets.

The 26-year-old, who worked previously in banking and has had to move back in with his parents to finance the enterprise, said: "We think we have a strong brand name that appeals to people who want to live the dream.

"I am sure we will be successful."

The firm is planning to expand into areas such as internet dating and corporate rewards for employees.