Thousands of hand-knitted jumpers have been sent to children in war-torn countries thanks to the handiwork of a caring pensioner.

Knit one, Purleigh one - 91-year-old Queenie Clarke. Picture: STEVE BAINBRIDGE(38147-2)

Queenie Clarke, 91, has been making jumpers to send abroad with missionaries for 17 years, and has donated about 1,500 to 2,000 for those in need.

She said: "I've never really kept a count of how many I've done. I just feel it is a help to me and I'm helping someone else less fortunate then me.

"I expect I have spent a lot of money on wool."

Mrs Clarke of Fairfields, Purleigh, has lived in the Maldon district since she was six and says she has been knitting for many years.

Published Wednesday, September 15, 2004

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