PICTURES: Spitfire in Somerset skies to thank NHS staff for coronavirus efforts

A SPECTACULAR aerial tribute to the NHS is set to grace the skies over Somerset tomorrow (August 18).

The 'Thank You NHS' Spitfire was launched earlier this year by the Aircraft Restoration Company as part of the Clap For Carers initiative - which saw millions take to their doorsteps to show appreciation for care workers during the coronavirus crisis.

Now, the legendary World War Two aircraft is taking to UK skies in tribute to their continued work, and is hoped to fly over Somerset throughout Tuesday.

A route has now been released to let people know where they can catch the aircraft in action.

People can also add their name to the aircraft thanks to a novel fundraising idea.

John Romain, founder and managing director of the Aircraft Restoration Company, explained: “The response to our initial flight over the last #clapforourcarers Thursday was incredibly humbling, with hundreds of people from the local community sharing how wonderful it was to not only see the Spitfire, but also to read the message emblazoned across its wings.

"After such positive response we decided to leave the message painted on the Spitfire for the rest of the flying season, this is where the idea to hand write the names of the nation’s loved ones onto the aircraft to raise money for the NHS Charities Together began.”

People can log on to justgiving.com/NHSSpitfire to make a donation to the appeal fund, and add their name to the Spitfire.

Meanwhile, the timetable of the flight, barring adverse weather conditions, is planned to be:

2pm: Cotswold Airport, Kemble - Takeoff

2.05pm: Great Western Hospital NHS - Swindon

2.12pm: Chippenham Community Hospital NHS

2.16pm: Trowbridge Community Hospital NHS

2.20pm: Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust

2.25pm: Southmead Hospital - North Bristol NHS Trust

2.27pm: Bristol Royal Infirmary NHS

2.38pm: Yeovil District Hospital NHS

2.45pm: Musgrove Park Hospital NHS - Taunton

2.53pm: Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital NHS - Wonford

3.05pm: North Devon District Hospital NHS - Barnstaple

3.18pm: Morrison Hospital NHS - Swansea

3.30pm: University Hospital of Wales NHS - Cardiff

3.35pm: Royal Gwent Hospital NHS - Newport

3.40pm: Chepstow Community Hospital NHS

3.50pm: Cotswold Airport, Kemble - Land