Dartmouth Caring is selling cards featuring an exclusive design by internationally renowned artist Simon Drew.

Mr Drew, who has been based in Dartmouth for more than 30 years agreed to provide a special image for the charity’s annual Christmas cards. His design is particularly suited to Dartmouth, and is full of his trademark humour.

Another artist, Marjorie Hickley, who lives in Lytham but is acquainted with the charities work, has also donated a charming image for a card this year.

The cards, which have featured designs by Dartmouth Artists John Gillo and John Donaldson in the past and are put into their packs by volunteers, bring in much-needed funds for the charity which looks out for the elderly and vulnerable in Dartmouth.

Mr Drew agreed to donate a design after he was asked by Dartmouth Caring’s manager and coordinator Alison Stocks to help raise funds for the charity.

His art, normally employing clever wordplay or simply silly puns, is famous across the world  – he has published numerous books and has both a gallery and a merchandise shop in the town.

Mr Drew said: “It made a lovely change to do a Christmas card that is specifically about Dartmouth: I don’t often get the chance to do that. So when Dartmouth Caring asked if I would do one I jumped at the opportunity as it is such a good local organisation. So many people benefit from DC and I’m sure they could do with some extra funds!”

Alison said the charity was lucky to have his support.

“Simon is such a widely renowned artist we are delighted he is supporting us,” she said. “When he said yes to providing an image we were over the moon, and when it arrived we were even happier as it is funny, Dartmouth-focused and beautifully crafted – it’s a wonderful card!”

Dartmouth Caring chairman Dee Nutt said: “We are very lucky to have the support of Simon and Marjorie this year – their generous gifts of these images will really help us. We depend on fundraising to support our activities in the community, and this does make a real difference.”

Packs of the cards will be on sale at local events throughout the summer, including the Stoke Fleming Village Show, the Dartmouth Caring charity day in the Royal Avenue Gardens on September 27, the Tourist Information Centre and other local outlets plus the Dartmouth Caring office and website http://www.dartmouthcaring.co.uk – the new designs cost £3.50 for a pack of six cards and envelopes.