The Trust has launched a major appeal to ask the public to help replace the replica Spitfire damaged by Storm Ciaran in November 2023.
The replica aircraft, one of the most popular attractions at the clifftop memorial to the Few, suffered badly when strong winds carved their way through the site and left it sitting on a buckled undercarriage.
A few weeks ago the fighter was taken to Great Yarmouth to be assessed ahead of major repairs, and the Trust has now decided that the sensible way forward is not to repair but to replace the ageing replica. While insurance will cover much of the cost, there is still a shortfall that the Trust is hoping supporters will help meet.
When the story broke that the aircraft had been damaged in the autumn storm, the Trust was overwhelmed by offers of support from well-wishers,
At that stage the charity was still in negotiations with the insurers and restorers and was unable to accept donations, but with those discussions now concluded the Trust has set up a Crowdfunder campaign to take advantage of ongoing public generosity.
As a charity that receives no government or local government funding, the Trust depends entirely on help from friends, visitors and supporters and it is hoping that they will help us bring a smart new Spitfire back to the site.
For details and to contribute, please follow this link.
For those who would rather not donate online, the Trust is also happy to accept cheques made payable to The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust CIO. They should be sent to The Secretary, c/o PO Box 337, West Malling, Kent ME6 9AA.
