A young artist with Duchenne muscular dystrophy is hoping to sell several pieces of art with all proceeds going to Haven House Children’s Hospice.

Harry Luxton, 18, from Harold Wood in Havering, finds it very difficult to use his hands as his muscles are weakening and requires use of a wheelchair but this hasn’t stopped him from creating contemporary artwork.

Some of his paintings are currently on display in Haven House’s Holistic Care Centre and Harry hopes the public will be encouraged to buy his work to raise funds for the hospice in Woodford Green, which is celebrating its 15th birthday this year.

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Harry sold his first two paintings last month at the Mayor of Redbridge’s Valentines Ball. He has been using Haven House since 2015 and has benefited from respite care that has developed his independence and confidence. He has been able to have fun and pursue his passion for art and socialise.

When Harry was first told about Haven House, he had a different idea of what it would be like. He explains: “I thought it was going to be like a hospital and quite boring with not much to do, but it’s not as scary as you think it will be - it’s great!

“Coming here really helps; it helps with my confidence, there are lots of people to talk to if you have problems and I get to do things which I might not normally get to do.”

Harry has also attended events such as Haven House’s Comedy Night, Summer Fair and Pumpkin Plod. In 2016, Harry spoke about the realities of living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in an appeal film for Haven House which was unveiled at the charity’s annual Ball.

Eileen White, director of care at Haven House, says: “Harry’s art is incredible and we are delighted that he has chosen to donate some of his pieces to the hospice.

“His paintings have been on display in our Holistic Care Centre for the past few months and you can’t help but notice the beauty of them each time you see them.

“We really hope our supporters will be encouraged to buy Harry’s art which will help us care for other children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.”

To view Harry’s collection of art visit havenhouse.org.uk/harrys-art