New Christmas cards created by talented Bluebell Wood supporter

Margaret Ellis (pictured), from Ecclesall, has supplied designs for the North Anston charity for the past four years.

She said: “I was pleased and flattered when Bluebell Wood got in touch a few years ago to ask me to do their charity card. 

“I’m delighted to hear that they sell out because it means more money is raised for the hospice, and I’m pleased that so many people like my work.

“I always ask people what they would like me to paint and then do my best to meet their requirements. 

“For this year Bluebell Wood asked for a painting of Clumber Church in the snow. I did two and they chose both and decided to put the two designs in each pack.”

Each painting takes up to six hours but Margaret spends weeks working on preliminary drawings, photos, sketches and other research.

She advised budding artists to not be timid or nervous in their work, adding: “Take chances, experiment and try things out. 

“If it fails, it doesn’t matter. Next time you might succeed. I believe in the saying ‘If you always do what you’ve always done, then you’ll always get what you’ve always got’.

“With landscapes, whenever possible, try to get outside and paint what you see from life. 

“If you haven’t time to paint the whole picture outdoors, then just do some small compositional sketches and take a photo for reference and work from those at home. 

“Only use photos for inspiration. Never ever try to copy them exactly.”

Bluebell Wood head of retail Sunny Allison said: “We’re so pleased that Margaret agreed to paint another beautiful scene for our Christmas cards again this year, as they always go down a storm with our supporters. 

“We’re letting everyone know they’re on sale now, so that anyone who missed out last year has a chance of getting some this year. 

“All the proceeds from these will help our families to make special memories, whether they have days, months or years left together.”

Visit www.bluebellwood.org/shop to order your cards.