In pictures : Life-size Crochet Spitfire Lands in Southport

A life-size handmade crochet Spitfire has just landed in the Town Hall Gardens on Lord Street, created as a tribute to the brave Polish RAF pilots who flew from RAF Woodvale during World War II.

This stunning piece has been eight months in the making, brought to life through an incredible community effort led by the Royal British Legion, Southport Hookers, Sefton Council, Liverpool Polonia, and local groups coming together with passion and pride.

The aircraft displays a Polish emblem identical to the one found on Spitfires flown by Polish pilots stationed at RAF Woodvale, near Southport, during World War Two.

RAF Woodvale opened on 25 October 1941 as a fighter base to defend Liverpool during the Blitz. The first to arrive was 308 Krakowski Squadron, followed by 315 Deblinski and 317 Wilenski Squadrons

During the war, 145 Polish pilots served in the RAF during the Battle of Britain, and by its end, around 19,400 Poles served in the Polish Air Force and RAF. RAF Woodvale later hosted rest periods for squadrons and over 2,000 personnel

Twenty-two pilots, including nine Poles, lost their lives there; six are buried in Formby. Today, memorials and community art in Southport honour their service and legacy.

The display is in place in the Town Hall Gardens, just outside The Atkinson, until 7th November 2025.