Lockdown Christmas Cards
1554. David Handford
Dr David Handford, aged 93, from South Gloucestershire, has been painting birthday and Christmas Cards from his nursing home Glebe House as an activity to maintain his wellbeing during lockdown.
A former GP who had served as a Captain with the Royal Army Medical Corps, David has been unable to see much of his family this year due to coronavirus. After making a few birthday cards for his fellow residents to send to family and friends, he decided to turn his hand to making Christmas cards, which his family have arranged to be professionally printed and sold to fundraise for charity. Dr Handford’s designs have helped lift the spirits of fellow residents and spread joy this festive season. So far he has sold over 600 cards in three designs, raising funds for the Royal British Legion and the Willow Trust.
In a personal letter to David, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“I was delighted to hear how you took up painting again as an activity during lockdown. What started as a small hobby supplying cards to fellow residents who were unable to get to the shops has expanded to a fantastic Christmas campaign.
“With over 600 Christmas cards now sold, you have spread some joy to your nursing home neighbours while raising funds for two wonderful charities – the Royal British Legion and the Willow Trust.
“Christmas is very different this year and so it is more important than ever to bring joy to others where we can. You have done this with your cards!”
David said:
“I am extremely pleased to hear this news – how very nice, and that will be good for Glebe House care home too.”