A Daily Echo campaign to raise funds for a bronze tribute to a Second World War plane has been backed by Dame Vera Lynn.

The war-time favourite, who kept up the troops spirits with her personal appearances, has lent her support to the £100,000 tribute to the Southampton-made Spitfire.

Companies are being urged to donate a minimum of £500 to the appeal being spearheaded by Squadron Leader Alan Jones.

He is the director of the Southampton Hall of Aviation, and appealing to companies to add to the £10,000 already raised for the replica set to stand on Chilworth roundabout.

For their money, companies will receive a limited edition certificate signed by Dame Vera Lynn, and also be acknowledged on the memorial itself.

Squadron Leader Jones said: “Dame Vera hopes that her support for the scheme will encourage local businesses to contribute to this important tribute to this great aircraft and the Southampton people that built it.”

The bronze replica will be of a Mk 1 – a type built at the Woolston factory.

Jones added: “We are also appealing to the public to continue to contribute to the scheme to realise this wonderful tribute to the people of Southampton.”

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