Spitfire flies over Derry to say ‘Thank U NHS’

A Spitfire, emblazoned with the words ‘Thank U NHS’, flew over the hospital on Thursday afternoon and also paid a visit to City of Derry Airport.

The plane, which worked on photo-reconnaissance missions during the Second World War, is touring hospitals across Britain and NI and raising money for NHS Charities Together.

It belongs to the family-owned Aircraft Restoration Company which first began flypasts as part of the ‘clap for carers’ tributes.

People may have seen images of the ‘THANK U NHS’ Spitfire, but they are now being offered a unique opportunity to nominate ‘loved ones’ whose names are being hand written onto the iconic, blue aircraft.

The names will be nominated by the public as a way of recognising small acts of kindness throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

From a family member to a kind neighbour, close friend or community hero, the public can now thank them with this special gesture. In return for their donation, their nominated name will be one of those written on the Spitfire, which has an 80,000 name capacity.

The JustGiving/NHSSpitfire donations window is open. The aim is to lift the spirits of people across these islands whilst also thanking the hospitals, communities and individuals who have been at the forefront of getting the country through the pandemic.

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/nhsspitfire