Spitfire flight takes off to support NHS

A Spitfire flew over the North East yesterday to lift people’s spirits and thank the NHS.

The blue Mark 11 aircraft, which carried the message ‘Thank UNHS’ written on the underside of its wings, soared over Sunderland Royal Hospital and Sunderland Children’s Hospital.

It could also be seen in the skies over Teesside, County Durham, Tyneside and Northumberland in the rescheduled flight by the Aircraft Restoration Company.

It had been due to fly over the region last Wednesday but had to be cancelled due to poor weather conditions.

Echo reader Ian Harper captured the aircraft in action.

As well as cheering people up, the aeroplane is also raising money for NHS Charities Together as the public make a donation for someone’ s name to be written on the plane.

Organisers say it is a way of recognising small acts of kindness throughout the Covid-19 pandemic from a family member to a kind neighbour, close friend or community hero.

The Spitfire has space for 80,000 names.

The Aircraft Restoration Company stated: “The aim is to lift the spirits of those acros s the U K , many of whom are still living in some form of isolation, whilst also thanking the hospitals, communities and individuals who have been at the forefront of getting the country through the pandemic.”

The Spitfire was specifically built and used for photo reconnaissance during the war.

Donations can still be made at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/nhsspitfire for a minimum of £10.