The Spitfire - iconic, legendary, and this year celebrating its 90th anniversary. Because it was back in 1936 that the Supermarine Spitfire made its maiden flight.
It was a weapon of war, and just four years after it first flew it took on the might of the Luftwaffe in the Battle of Britain, an aerial conflict which changed history. The exploits of the Spitfire and Hurricane squadrons made Hitler think again as he drew up his invasion plans.
Shropshire had its part in the Spitfire story. Some were based here, some were even made here. Hundreds were made at Sankey’s in Hadley during the war.
To mark the anniversary let’s bring you a selection highlighting some of Shropshire’s Spitfire links as well as some of the heroes who flew them.
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1. The first of the many
The prototype of the legendary Supermarine Spitfire fighter, serial code K5054, seen on the occasion of the first time it was about to be seen by the public in June 1936. This picture in our archive was taken either on, or immediately in advance of, a press demonstration day of the new Spitfire, which took place on Thursday, June 18, 1936. The supplied information on the back of our print reads: "BRITAIN’S LATEST FIGHTING PLANES. An air force in miniature was displayed at Southampton Aerodrome today (Thurs) when Mess. Vickers and Supermarine aviation companies demonstrated types of the latest fighting, bombing and amphibian aircraft. These machines, which the include the Spitfire I, the fastest military aeroplane in the world designed and constructed on the principles of the Schneider Trophy seaplanes will be seen by the public for the first time at the Air Force Display. O.P.S. (i.e. our picture shows) The Spitfire I (Vickers Supermarine) the fastest military aeroplane in the world. A day and night fighter." | Express & Star archive
2. Flying the flag
A flying display by a Spitfire at Terry Wogan's Summer Proms at Weston Park on Saturday, July 29, 2006. | Shropshire Star
3. A glimpse of Raymond's yesterday world
Raymond Baxter, who later became a well-known presenter of the television show Tomorrow's World, with his Spitfire named "Sylvia K." It was named after his wife-to-be, Sylvia K Johnson, whom he met in Shropshire while serving as an instructor at RAF Montford Bridge, near Shrewsbury, in the first part of 1944. This picture was taken after he returned to operations with 602 Squadron. | Raymond Baxter
4. Taking a close look
Visitors to RAF Cosford's Battle of Britain commemorations in September 1947 take a close look at a Spitfire. Other famous planes were to be seen, including a Meteor jet. RAF personnel on duty fielded hundreds of questions from the visitors. | Express & Star