THEY may not be the Crown Jewels but, to their owner, the Brown jewels were just as valuable.
Nevertheless, as soon as 84-year-old Marjorie Brown, a resident of Accrington's Springhill Care Home, heard about a local appeal to collect jewellery for an auction in aid of the tsunami victims, she didn't think twice about giving away her sentimental gems.
A wristwatch bought for her late husband, Arthur; two brooches given by her father's wartime friends in Belgium; and a selection of other watches, earrings and a scarf clip were among the items she donated.
Jeweller Tim Whitcombe who has a shop in Warner Street, Accrington, organised the appeal.
He said: "They may not have been the Crown Jewels or worth a fortune but they meant a lot to her and it was a lovely gesture."
Marjorie, who was widowed 15 years ago, and is originally from Blackburn, has lived at Springhill Care Home for the past 11 years.
She said: "When I read about the appeal I was just pleased to think that I could contribute in a small way.
"Although the pieces were all very dear to me, I didn't have any real need for them at my age and I have no daughters to pass them on to.
"I'm sure it is what Arthur would have wanted and after all I still have my memories even if I don't have the jewellery."
The home's registered manager Kath Parkinson said: "As soon as Marjorie heard about the appeal, she was determined to part with her treasured pieces. She is a lovely lady and we've all been humbled by her selfless act."
Jewellery collected is to be auctioned off by Mr Whitcombe later this month.
Anybody interested in donating old, broken or unwanted jewellery can contact him on 872564.
