A BRIDPORT resident with Down's Syndrome has raised money for NHS staff by designing, creating and distributing Christmas cards across the area.

Reuben Coe, 37, raised £380 for the Bridport Community Hospital by selling a variety of self-designed Christmas cards.

Reuben was living in a care home in Bridport when the pandemic struck. Reuben struggled under the lockdown conditions, unable to partake in many activities or to interact with other people.

Reuben and his family were looking for ways for him to be stimulated and that's when the idea to design the Christmas cards came up.

Reuben's brother, Manni Coe, said: "It started as a form of art therapy really, Reuben has always been very creative and at the time he didn't really have a way to express his creativity.

"He started designing the cards and we realised he could sell these cards to raise some money and it just snowballed from there.

"Hopefully this could be the start of something and Reubs could potentially open up a stall up at the market – he has a really distinct style."

Each cards feature a number of unique designs by Reuben. There is a message on the inside wishing people a ‘Mary Christmas’ because that’s what Reuben had previous thought the saying was and a ‘Cosy New Year’, since Reuben believes people will likely be staying inside. The font on the cards is Reuben's handwriting.

The cards were sold at Burton Bradstock Post Office and at the hospital itself for £5.

Reuben presented the cheque to a representative of Bridport Community Hospital on Wednesday, December 23. During the exchange, Reuben was asked what he would like the money to go towards and he replied 'to the staff'.

Manni added: "It’s given Reuben a real sense of purpose and he’s so proud and rightfully so. It’s been a real joy for him and its boosted his confidence as well.

"Everyone’s been isolated this year but most people have had a chance to get something rewarding out of their day. Reuben and so many people like him have had nothing and this has given him a purpose and a spark once again.

"A lot of people with learning difficulties want to be involved and want to work but they are quite limited by our society."