A Glossopdale School pupil has had the honour of naming a very special piece of artwork which proudly welcomes all visitors to Reuben's Retreat.

The specially commissioned 6ft by 4ft painting, which took six months to create, is by renowned Chester-Le-Street based artist Lindsay Madden who has long been a supporter of the charity.

A call out was made before the summer to suggest a name for the iconic piece of art – and 14-year-old Brooke Taylor came up with the name which Lindsay, along with Reuben’s mummy Nicola Graham, felt perfectly summed it up.

‘When friends become family’, as it is now known, features a parade of children and includes symbols that act as a nod to the charity and its work such as ladybirds and the number 23, as well as the Retreat itself and Reuben’s brother Isaac. There are also hidden icons to show gratitude to organisations and individuals who have been hugely supportive in helping the charity in its journey.

Lindsay was introduced to Reuben’s Retreat by The Hawthorn Gallery who gifted the charity two of her pieces back in 2014, and since then the artist has been a big supporter.

The chance to name the painting was spotted by Brooke’s mum, Jane Taylor, on the charity’s social media. The family live in Hadfield and took an interest in the charity when it took over Wood’s Hospital several years ago. The charity is currently working with more than 600 individuals from across the UK, in the form of counselling, bereavement support, family days, animal, music and wellbeing therapy, support groups, family breaks and much more.

Brooke Taylor with mum Jane Taylor at Reuben's Retreat

Brooke said: “I was so pleased and excited when I was told my name had been chosen. I’d had a few ideas of what the name could be, but this one just seemed to stand out. I’ve never won anything like this before! My mum and I visited the Retreat for the first time to unveil the name of the painting and it was fantastic to be able to walk around and see what has been done and the facilities available. And of course to see ‘When Friends Become Family’ taking pride of place in the entrance! It’s even bigger than I thought it would be!”

Lindsay said: “The name ‘When Friends Become Family’ perfectly sums up not only the painting and what I hoped to capture, but also the amazing work that Reuben’s Retreat does. The charity has a special place in my heart and I really wanted this particular painting to convey the joy and peace that can be found at the Retreat. The beauty of it is that as it is set on a blackboard style background, there are elements that can be added over the years as the charity grows and evolves.”

Nicola Graham added: “The name Brooke came up with couldn’t be more perfect and we’re very grateful that she took the time to get in touch with it. We are also so thankful to Lindsay for her kindness and the amazing gifts she has given us. All her pieces are so poignant and capture our essence at their core.”

Reuben’s Retreat was founded in August 2012 following the tragic passing of 23-month old Reuben Michael Graham, who suffered an extremely rare and aggressive brain tumour.

Despite crippling grief, his mum Nicola wanted to help families experiencing complex child illnesses or bereavement, ultimately offering them a place where they can relax, recharge, remember and rebuild.

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