A MONMOUTH quiltmaker who has sent almost 1,000 quilts to soldiers has been honoured with a military commendation.

Jean Morris, of Osbaston has clocked up thousands of hours making quilts since founding the Quilts of Valour UK (QoV UK) branch in 2009, making quilts for injured soldiers.

The grandmother made around half of the 988 quilts, with the remainder by volunteers from around the UK. Each quilt can take between one week and six months to make.

Her dedication saw her recently receive The Adjutant General’s Award, rarely given to civilians, at a ceremony at the headquarters of the Royal Artillery at Larkhill, Wiltshire.

Mrs Morris, a retired practice nurse, was inspired by American mother Catherine Roberts, who set up the foundation in 2003 after her son was deployed to Iraq.

She said: “I met Catherine at a quilting show in Texas in 2007 and heard about Quilts of Valour Foundation. I came home and founded a UK branch.”

“We receive letters from the soldiers who are grateful for their quilts. Some tell us they take them wherever they go.”

“We write a label on the back of the each quilt with the name of the soldier and their regiment so it’s personal to them.”

“We also make quilts for relatives of those killed in action.”

She said: “I first learned about the award when I was invited to visit the Royal Artillery in December. They told me I was going to get an award not usually given to civilians.”

“It was presented to me at the end of February. One of the Colonels came from Catterick with two injured soldiers who had received quilts.”

“I feel proud to receive it. Other quilters were involved, so the award’s not just for me, but I feel very privileged.”

For details visit www.qovf.org