First public statue of black woman unveiled

The Bronze Woman monument was inspired by a poem written 30 years ago by Stockwell writer Cécile Nobrega, 89, celebrating the achievements of women and the contribution that Caribbean people had made to British society.

The 10ft bronze of a woman holding her child aloft was designed by the late Ian Walters, who also made the statue of Nelson Mandela in Parliament Square.

Ms Nobrega was due to unveil the new monument in Stockwell Memorial Gardens this afternoon.