Oakham's iconic willow spitfire has been unveiled following a complete restoration. 

The spitfire, which is located on the bypass in Burley Park Way, underwent intricate re-weaving by Rutland Willows at Wymondham, financed by a £1,000 donation from Oakham Memorial Institute. 

The restored spitfire (Photo: Oakham in Bloom)

The restoration was unveiled by Adam Lowe, Chair of Oakham Memorial Institute, who placed a wreath in the colours of the RAF. 

Lowe was joined in unveiling the spitfire by Oakham in Bloom Chair Sheila Cunningham and Martin Keeley from Rutland Willows. 

The restoration of the spitfire coincides with the annual season of Remembrance, marking the 504 squadron of Spitfires which was briefly based in Rutland at RAF Cottesmore during the Second World War. 

Rob Persani of Rutland & Stamford Sound, Julie Lowe, Adam Lowe, Sheila Cunningham, Martin Keeley (Photo: Oakham in Bloom)

Speaking about the spitfire, Sheila said: 'The Spitfire re-weave has been happening as we approach the end of the gardening season and is one of the many projects for which Oakham in Bloom is responsible. 

'It's wonderful for us to play a small part in these events. Oakham in Bloom is always keen to welcome more volunteers to help enhance the look of the town – doing planting, pruning and weeding.  

'Helping us for just one hour a month will be enormously helpful. Our volunteers also enjoy social time together throughout the year and we hope there may be someone locally out there who may wish to become our social events organiser.' 

For anyone interested in getting involved with Oakham in Bloom, contact Sheila at [email protected]  

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READ MORE: 'Grafting together forms friendships': How Oakham in Bloom volunteers keep the town beautiful while connecting with their community

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