Moment iconic Spitfire flew over Chesterfield Royal Hospital to thank NHS heroes

The ‘THANK U NHS’ spitfire did several circuits of the hospital grounds on Saturday, July 11, and these pictures were captured by Hasland photographer Nick Rhodes.

The Battle of Britain aircraft has handwritten names of countless nominated heroes on it with the words 'THANK U NHS' emblazoned across its wings.

Hundreds of people have made donations to the NHS Charities Together to get the name of their lockdown hero written on it, whether it's a family member, neighbour or key worker.

MORE: Coronavirus death toll at Chesterfield Royal Hospital remains static as no further fatalities recorded

A spokesperson for the Royal said: “The level of encouragement and messages of support that the trust and the wider NHS has received throughout this pandemic has been tremendous and made the world of difference to the morale and emotional wellbeing of everyone working at the Royal.

“To be thanked and recognised with a flypast from one of Britain’s most iconic planes is right up there and was an incredible site for those who were able to witness it.

MORE: Chesterfield residents react as town centre roads are closed for 'social distancing'

"We would like to once again thank everyone who has supported us throughout the pandemic for all of their generosity and would like to urge everyone to continue following the advice and guidelines to protect our services and each other.”

The spitfire, which is being maintained by the Aircraft Restoration Company, has been touring hospitals and other sites across the country.

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