How do I create an animated GIF file from my JPG files?

I have a collection of JPG files that I would like to put together in sequence - probably as an animated GIF file. Any ideas how this might be achieved (by a newbie)? I'm Windows 98SE and poor so prefer freeware or shareware.
Gato London, April 2006


done
I use JASC Paintshop Pro. It comes bundled with JASC Animation Shop. Animation Shop is an animated gif creator/editor.

...muck, May 2006