Sufferers of severe eczema could one day find writing easier, thanks to an invention dreamt up by a Caterham student.

Sam Clarke, 18, was shortlisted for a national prize for his creation - a hand-held device which helps those so badly afflicted they struggle to grip a pen.

The first-year product design student at Brunel University was one of five finalists in the If Only It Worked competition, run by the University of Bath.

The competition challenged students to find innovative solutions to everyday problems facing people with disabilities and long-term illnesses.

His invention works like a computer mouse, giving eczema sufferers a large object to grip which allows small, controlled movement, meaning it requires less dexterity to use than a pen.

Sam said: "People with severe eczema often struggle with tasks that require dexterity or a tight grip such as drawing or writing.

"This is a problem that is often overlooked so I wanted to see if I could create a device which would help make this everyday task easier for lots of people with this condition."

Competition judges Chris Ramsden, Richard Oldale and Martin Fortune noted: "Sam’s submission was selected as one of five finalist competition entries for a number of reasons: not only would the use of the proposed product reduce the impact of tremors and/or poor control since the wrist would not be involved, but also the foldable nature of the product would make it very easy to transport.

"Also, the aesthetical side of the proposed design was very-well thought out."

Dr Sharon Baurley, head of design at Brunel University said: "We are extremely proud of Sam's achievement in this competition against some very high calibre entries.

"In just his first year of his degree Sam has shown great potential and no doubt will have a successful career ahead of him."