Tourism minister John Penrose has announced the government is to contribute GBP1m to help fund a new monument in London's Green Park commemorating Bomber Command.

The GBP3.5m project is being primarily funded through donations from a public appeal, along with contributions from three individual benefactors. It is due to open in June.

Penrose confirmed a GBP796,000 boost to add to a recent award totalling GBP204,000 through the Memorial Grant Scheme to take the government's total support to GBP1m.

"The sacrifice made by everyone who served, and the many who lost their lives, with Bomber Command during the war humbles us all," said Penrose.

Details: www.culture.gov.uk