A picture painted especially for the Bridport Refugee Support Campaign is being made into Christmas cards to raise funds.

The group, which recently achieved charity status, asked local artists to create an image reflecting their feelings about the refugee crisis. These were displayed at a stall in Bucky Doo Square, introducing the campaign to Bridport.

Hugh Dunford Wood, a celebrated local artist, painted an image of the Holy Family exploring west Dorset, setting them in a hollow way.

He said: "My childhood was rootless, a wandering, camp-following military upbringing, unsettled and confusing. So, insecurity was an issue I wanted to explore through the rootedness of landscape, placing the refugee family in an unknown land, looking for a refuge.

"Refugees need to be welcomed by finding what we have in common, our love of children breaking bread together and sharing our stories."

Margie Barbour, who has been managing the production of the cards and the sales, said: "I am grateful to the businesses of Bridport that have been so helpful during lockdown, especially considering what a difficult time we are going through, they have been exceptionally supportive.

"Leakers, Fruits of the Earth, Waste Not Want Not and Rise have all agreed to sell the cards for the campaign.

"The cards are being printed by Footeprints, which has continued trading during lockdown. They made it possible to easily manage all the details of scanning the painting, designing the card and choosing the font. The group want to thank Jason and Jazz for their immense support through the whole process."

Packs of five cards cost £3 and jars for the money will be on the counter. They can also be bought from Ann Langridge, the treasurer, by calling 07772 035574 or emailing [email protected] with your order and she will deliver it to you.

They will also be available from Bridport Tourist Information Centre when it reopens.

For more information about the campaign, email [email protected].