04/02/13

Chocks away! Ambitious plans for flying memorial to The Few

Spitfire flying against the White Cliffs

by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Spitfire county could have its own Flying Memorial to the Few and a new tourism magnet if a businessman's dream comes true.

Steve Burt, an industrial designer who runs Action Stations!, a company that offers passengers helicopter fly-by thrills with a Spitfire and Hurricane, is launching a campaign to acquire these legendary Battle of Britain aircraft for Kent. It could cost more than £2million.

At present, Mr Burt, who lives in Littlebourne, near Canterbury, hires aircraft owned by the Rye-based Historic Aircraft Collection and hangared at Duxford to fly alongside the helicopter.

He is convinced the project would prove a big draw for visitors as well as engaging residents.

Tourism chiefs and Kent County Council are interested in an idea that would complement the county's existing commemoration of The Few - those courageous young pilots who saved Britain from Nazi invasion in 1940.

A Spitfire flypast at Capel le Ferne

"It would be a massive tourism opportunity for Kent," said Mr Burt. He also envisages a replica fighter station with static displays and re-enactments.

"People from all works of life were trained in a short period of time to jump into these amazing aeroplanes, take them up in the air and do extraordinary things. I don’t believe we recognise that enough."

He added: "It's important for future generations to realise we are all here today with our wealth of freedom because of what they did. Kent is in a prime position to do this and put this message across to the rest of the world."

Mark Dance, KCC cabinet member for regeneration and economic development, backs the idea. The council would not contribute funding but give "moral support and get behind any campaign".

Mr Burt believes the flying memorial should also recognise the sacrifice of German airmen.