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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33. A great among greats
Admiring spectators get a look at a Spitfire at Ansells Halfpenny Green Air Show in August 1975 - presumably the brewery sponsored the event. About 35,000 spectators attended the show, held on the Bank Holiday Sunday. This particular Spitfire, serial AB910, is still airworthy today and is considered one of the most historically significant Spitfires in the world. It is part of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. | Express & Star archive