AT the beginning of the twentieth century we in the Southampton area found ourselves not only in the forefront of overseas trade, passenger travel and shipbuilding, but also at the centre of the birth of aviation, with new and exciting developments coming thick and fast, spurred on by keen competition. Our waters proved suitable for the invention of sea planes and flying boats.

Much of this story can be viewed at the fascinating Solent Sky Museum, a little tucked away perhaps, but easily reached with the new shuttle-bus service, or on foot. The route from Town Quay is packed full of interest.

What we lack is a visible statue, something to make an immediate statement to visitors, to make the city and its neighbourhood proud of its achievements and to remind future generations.

That is why the bronze replica of the Spitfire, the most famous and important of all the local inventions, must be built.

Perhaps some local big businesses would feel inclined to contribute to the cost? They would thereby be commemorating previous ground breaking enterprises which provided a workforce and an atmosphere in which their business could prosper.

CHERYL JORDAN, Shirley, Southampton.