A fundraising campaign has been launched to return an Oakham landmark to its former glory.

The commemorative willow Spitfire on Burley Park Way is 'looking very sorry for itself' and David Craven, who came up with the idea of commissioning the sculpture, is spearheading a campaign to raise £1,000 for its rejuvenation.

The Spitfire sculpture was put in place in 2010 by members of the then RAF Cottesmore, in conjunction with Oakham In Bloom, to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

Mr Craven told Oakham Nub News: "For several years the Spitfire was maintained but, in recent years since the closure of the RAF unit, it has been neglected.

"I live in Oakham, but am stationed at RAF Brize Norton, in Oxfordshire, and drive past the Spitfire every Friday on my way home.

"It's fallen into disrepair and looking very sorry for itself.

"I have been in touch with Rutland Willows, who created the Spitfire, and to bring the monument back to its former glory it needs a complete re-skin costing in the region of £600 to £700.

"Oakham in Bloom are keen to help with its restoration, but are reliant on donations. So, with no dedicated funding for this proud memorial to those who sacrificed so much, I have started a crowd funding page to raise £1,000."

advertisement

The target total - and any additional funds over that figure - will not only pay for the re-skin but also ensure there is money set aside for regular maintenance.

Anyone who would like to support Mr Craven's fundraising can click the red button below to go to his online crowd funding page.

Photos courtesty of David Craven.

Photo 2: The willow Spitfire in tip-top condition