Conqueror of enigma code finally honoured

Alan Turing, the national hero who broke the Nazi's enigma code and is credited with turning the tide of the World War Two, is to be honoured with a life-size statute.

The bronze monument, which will be unveiled today, comes almost 50 years after the brilliant scientist was driven to suicide by persecution over his homosexuality. Five years after its inception, the £20,000 sculpture of Turing sitting on a bench holding an apple will be displayed Manchester's Sackville Park in the city centre.

The mathematical genius became a national hero after his involvement in World War Two, he also helped invent the inaugural computer, at Manchester University, but was persecuted and prosecuted for his homosexuality. He committed suicide in 1954 by eating a poisoned apple.

Many believe Turing has never been recognised properly for his outstanding contribution to science. But Glyn Hughes, the statue's creator, is confident that Turing has finally earned his rightful place in the history books. Hughes, from Adlington near Chorley, said: " It's stunningly realistic. I'm sure it will go a dirty black over time, but it looks wonderful today."