Anger Over Removal of Crocheted Spitfire for Christmas Tree
Despite local outrage, the life-size crocheted Spitfire model, which took eight months to complete, is being dismantled today outside Southport Town Hall. The removal is to make space for a Christmas tree ahead of Remembrance Sunday.
Background and Construction
The artwork commemorates the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, honoring 145 Polish fighter pilots who served with the RAF during the Battle of Britain. Bootle’s Men in Sheds Association, together with Polish community groups, built the fuselage. It was then covered with crochet panels created by local yarn-bombers, the Southport Hookers, and unveiled last month.
Public Reaction and Site Usage
Hundreds of visitors have admired the Spitfire daily and read memorials to 12 Polish pilots who lost their lives defending Britain at nearby RAF Woodvale. However, the location is central to Southport’s Christmas celebrations, meaning the Spitfire was always intended to be on display for just two and a half weeks.
The local Royal British Legion, which led the project, stated, "Our focus for Remembrance Sunday is the annual civic commemoration at Southport's imposing war memorial.”
Controversy
- Visitors questioned why the Spitfire could not remain for a few more days, especially since the Christmas spectacular starts on November 15.
- The decision to take it down earlier has sparked anger within the community.
Summary
The crocheted Spitfire, a carefully crafted tribute to Polish wartime pilots, was removed early to prepare for Christmas, despite local disappointment and its importance as a remembrance symbol.
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