A MUSEUM has another valuable exhibit to add to its impressive collection, thanks to the generosity of a family from the region.

The Green Howards Regimental Museum, in Richmond, displays hundreds of decorations, recording the achievements of soldiers who have joined the ranks throughout the ages.

Eighteen Victoria Crosses are on display this year after being brought together for the first time, thanks to the relatives of the recipients, who have agreed to long-term loans.

But a Military Medal is now on permanent display, as well as 1939-45 Star, a North African Star, an Italian Star, A North-West Europe Star, a Defence Medal and a War Medal.

They were all awarded to Sergeant John Clayton, who served with the Green Howards during the Second World War.

He was awarded the Military Medal for bravery during the African campaign, leading other units through minefields and helping to locate enemy positions and snipers.

He survived the war, dying of a stroke in 1951.

This week, his younger brother, Kenneth, who lives in Boroughbridge, as well as daughters Patricia Wilcockson, from Bridlington, and Jo Clayton, from Perth, Australia, visited the museum to hand over the medals.

"It is more usual for families to loan decorations won by soldiers from the regiment but, this time, Sgt Clayton's relatives have given them as a gift, for which we are extremely grateful," said museum spokesman Major Roger Chapman.