The NHS Spitfire will fly over Eastbourne today: this is when you can see it

The blue photo-reconnaissance aircraft features handwritten names of the people who have helped throughout the pandemic.

The names have been nominated by the public as a small act of kindness to thank those for their work during the crisis.

On Saturday (August 1), the Spitfire – which has the words ‘THANK U NHS’ painted on the underside of the wings – will be taking off from its Duxford base before flying over hospitals in Kent, East Sussex and West Sussex.

The aircraft will take off at 11am and is expected over Hastings at 11.55am.

The plane will be flying over hospitals in East Sussex at these times:

– 11.55am – Conquest Hospital, Hastings

– 12pm – Bexhill Hospital

– 12.05pm – Eastbourne District General Hospital

It will then continue west to Brighton, Worthing, Bognor and Goodwood.

The Aircraft Restoration Company, the company organising the flights, said routes in different areas of the country are being planned throughout the summer.

Those looking to nominate a name for the plane can do so until the deadline of September 20.

If you would like to nominate someone, click here.