The prototype Spitfire around the time of its first flight. It is unpainted and the undercarriage covers have not been fitted. Photo from: Imperial Air Museums

First flight from Eastleigh, April 2, 1940. Assigned to 72 Squadron, June 4, 1940. Flew in Battle of Britain. Cat.3 damaged on landing following P/O Elliot passing out due to lack of oxygen, July 3, 1940. Never again flew operationally. Transferred over the years to many RAF locations. Restored to static display condition, 1961. Science Museum Store, Sydenham, London, December 16, 1954-1963. Science Museum, South Kensington, London, 1963. Displayed in 72 Sqn markings 'P9444/RN-D'.

Incredibly this was one of three Mk1 Spitfires present at Flying Legends 2012. This aircraft crashed on a training flight in North Yorkshire in December 1940 and was recovered in 1976. The first post-restoration flight took place in March 2012

A delightful, rare Mk 1 Spitfire