Anger as Crocheted Spitfire Removed for Christmas Tree
A stunning life-size crocheted Spitfire model outside Southport Town Hall will be dismantled today despite local outrage. The artwork, which took eight months to complete, marked the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
The Spitfire fuselage was created by Bootle’s Men in Sheds Association in collaboration with Polish community groups. It was then covered with crochet panels made by Southport Hookers, a local yarn-bombing group, and unveiled last month.
Visitors have questioned why the model couldn’t stay for just two more days, especially since Southport’s annual Christmas spectacular doesn’t start until November 15.
Tribute to Polish Fighter Pilots
The piece honors 145 Polish fighter pilots who served with the RAF during the Battle of Britain. It also memorializes 12 Polish wartime pilots based at nearby RAF Woodvale who sacrificed their lives defending Britain.
Site’s Role in Christmas Festivities
Despite its popularity, the site is a key part of the Merseyside resort’s Christmas celebration. Organizers had always planned to dismantle the Spitfire after about two and a half weeks to make room for the Christmas tree.
The local Royal British Legion, which coordinated the project, said its focus for Remembrance Sunday is the annual civic commemoration at Southport's imposing war memorial.
Hundreds of visitors had come daily to admire the crochet Spitfire and read the memorials.
Author’s Summary
The removal of the meticulously crafted Spitfire for Christmas festivities sparked anger, highlighting tensions between remembrance and seasonal celebrations in Southport.