Youngster from Great Cornard masters meticulous art form to craft 3D tribute for NHS staff battling coronavirus outbreak

A talented young boy from Great Cornard has mastered a meticulous art form to express his gratitude to front-line medical workers tackling the coronavirus outbreak.

Cameron Balzer applied the technique of book folding to craft a three-dimensional design from the pages of an old novel.

Keen to thank NHS staff for their tireless efforts while treating patients with Covid-19, the 11-year-old was inspired to create his own unique gift with a special message.

“He wanted to show his appreciation for their work,” said his mother, Rebecca, of Maldon Court, who taught her son the technique.

The youngster developed a passion for the art form after watching his mother transform various books into dramatic designs.

“He finds it very therapeutic,” said Mrs Balzer. “And he also likes people to see the work that he does, so it gives him some kind of happiness.”

Cameron’s art piece has impressed his siblings, Chelsea, Theo and Amelia, while his headteacher, Elizabeth Campbell, at Tudor Primary School, was so taken by his work that she showcased it online.

His tribute to the NHS has taken pride of place at the front of the family’s house.

“We live on quite a busy hill, so a lot of people can see it,” said Mrs Balzer, adding that she hoped the design would help to lift people’s spirits during the UK-wide lockdown. “Hopefully, it will brighten people’s days a little.”

Having witnessed her husband, Karl, suffer from suspected symptoms of coronavirus, Mrs Balzer added: “I think it really hits home when it happens to someone close to you.”