Anger as Crocheted Spitfire Removed for Christmas Tree
A life-size crocheted Spitfire, created over eight months to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, is being dismantled outside Southport Town Hall despite local outrage. The removal, scheduled ahead of Remembrance Sunday, is to make way for a Christmas tree display.
Community Reaction and Timing Concerns
Visitors have questioned why the Spitfire could not remain in place for just two more days, especially since Southport’s annual Christmas spectacular does not start until November 15. Many have come daily to admire the model and honor the memory of 12 Polish WWII pilots.
Creation and Significance of the Spitfire
The fuselage of the artwork pays tribute to 145 Polish fighter pilots who served with the RAF during the Battle of Britain. It was built by Bootle’s Men in Sheds Association alongside Polish community groups, then covered with panels meticulously crocheted by Southport Hookers, a local yarn-bombing group. The Spitfire was unveiled last month and quickly became a popular memorial.
Organizers’ Perspective
The site is central to Southport’s Christmas celebrations, so organizers have always planned for the Spitfire to be on display for only two-and-a-half weeks. The local Royal British Legion, which coordinated the project, emphasized their focus on the annual Remembrance Sunday civic commemoration at the town’s main war memorial.
“Its focus for Remembrance Sunday is the annual civic commemoration at Southport's imposing war memorial.”
The crochet Spitfire was both a tribute and a temporary installation, balancing remembrance with seasonal festivities.
Summary: The cherished crocheted Spitfire honoring Polish WWII pilots is being removed prematurely for holiday decorations, sparking community disappointment but reflecting organizers’ priorities for Remembrance Sunday and Christmas events.