Anger as Crocheted Spitfire Removed for Christmas Tree
Despite local outrage, the life-size crocheted Spitfire model, which took eight months to create, is being dismantled today outside Southport Town Hall. The artwork was made to honor the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
Reason for Removal
The Spitfire is being taken down ahead of Remembrance Sunday to make room for a Christmas tree. Visitors have expressed frustration, questioning why the tribute couldn’t remain for just two more days, especially since the site’s annual Christmas event doesn’t begin until November 15.
Creation and Significance
The fuselage pays tribute to 145 fighter pilots from occupied Poland who flew with the RAF during the Battle of Britain. It was built by Bootle’s Men in Sheds Association alongside local Polish community groups. The panels covering it were meticulously crocheted by the yarn-bombing group Southport Hookers and unveiled last month.
Public Reception and Memorial
Since its unveiling, hundreds have visited daily to admire the Spitfire and read memorials for 12 Polish wartime pilots based at nearby RAF Woodvale who died defending Britain.
Planned Temporary Installation
The location is the centerpiece of Southport’s Christmas festivities, and organizers had always planned to dismantle the Spitfire after about two and a half weeks. The local Royal British Legion, which coordinated the project, emphasized that their main focus for Remembrance Sunday remains the annual civic commemoration at Southport’s war memorial.
"Our focus for Remembrance Sunday is the annual civic commemoration at Southport's imposing war memorial."
Summary: The crocheted Spitfire, a heartfelt tribute to Polish WWII pilots, is removed early to accommodate Southport's Christmas tree, sparking local disappointment despite prior awareness.
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