Growing controversy over Bomber Command award

There is growing controversy over the special award that's been given to those who served in Bomber Command during the Second World War.

It has been highlighted by an anomaly involving two war veterans in the same squadron, who flew in the same Stirling aircraft over Germany. One of them has received the Bomber Command clasp, the other has had his application rejected.

88-year-old Denis Gill from Worlingham in Suffolk has been given one. He was a rear gunner and flew 34 missions with 199 Squadron from North Creake in Norfolk. The only other surviving crew member, 90-year-old Andy Croxall from Atherstone in Warwickshire, has not received one.

He flew 24 missions and believes he should get the clasp.

Denis Gill agrees wholeheartedly.

The Ministry of Defence says it is the number of days served, which determines who receives the clasp.

Critics say that, due to the massive casualties suffered by Bomber Command, anyone who flew a single mission deserves the clasp.