Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Spitfire fly-by pays tribute to NHS staff
DUNDEE and Perth residents will be able to enjoy an aerial treat today, as the NHS Spitfire flies over local hospitals in tribute to key workers.
The historic plane, which has the words “Thank U NHS” emblazoned on its fuselage, has travelled the country on a mission to show public appreciation for the effort key workers have put in during the pandemic.
It was taking off from Cumbernauld Airport today to fly across Edinburgh and Fife before arriving at Perth Royal Infirmary. The plane was then flying over Murray Royal Hospital, before soaring over Ninewells and Stracathro Hospital, all before 11am.
John Romain, the Spitfire’s 61-year-old owner, was piloting the aircraft which was then making its way towards Aberdeen.
John said: “I own the Aircraft Restoration Company, and during lockdown we needed to do an air test of a Spitfire which we had just restored. We took it out and so many people loved it, we decided to take it out during one of the Thursday claps.
“That’s when my son, George, suggested we paint the message on the bottom, and many people loved that.
“I thought we should start doing hospitals and, after we did one, we got so many more requests.”
John and the NHS Spitfire team decided to fly over every UK region, from the south to the north.
The project has also raised more than £80,000 for charity through a JustGiving page where people can donate to have their names painted on the side of the plane.
The pilot added: “The NHS staff love it, we’ve had lots of support and everyone who sees it is a really big fan. One person said to me this fight against coronavirus is the new Battle of Britain, so having the Spitfire here is helping out. It’s very humbling when you fly over and see everyone clapping.
“We’re pushing towards £100,000 for the NHS charities and I’m sure they’ll use it in the best way they can to help as many people as possible.”