IT was the iconic fighter plane credited with winning the Battle of Britain and the foremost symbol of South-ampton's aviation heritage. Now after years of calls for a memorial to the Spitfire, plans have been unveiled for a permanent memorial in the city.

The new Tory administration has proposed erecting a life-size bronze replica of the aircraft at a prominent Southampton gateway.

Councillor John Hannides, Cabinet member for leisure and culture told the Daily Echo: "I'm passionate about making it happen and attaching Southampton to the accomplishments of R J Mitchell and Spitfire."

He said: "We know of Southampton's attachment to a whole range of important historical events, notably our maritime heritage.

"But in modern terms most historians would tell you that as far as a turning point of the Second World War, the Battle of Britain, and our fight for air superiority, the Spitfire was a key component.

"For Southampton we have the proud history of R J Mitchell designing and building the first Spitfire in Southampton.

"It's disappointing this particular aspect of our history has not been highlighted and celebrated sooner.

"Other cities have much less of a connection to historical events and are still very happy to embrace them and make them their own. But in Southampton we almost seem to have been in denial."

The announcement comes days after the Tories ditched controversial plans for a laser light show in the Civic Centre clock tower.