A mere 52 years on from my first shot of this famous two-seater Spitfire (here), this is how she looks now. Repainted from its RAF livery (MT818) in USAAF colours for the 2025 season, it represents Spitfire IX MH894 as flown by Lt John E Fawcett of the 309th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group. Deployed to Gibraltar in November 1942, it operated in North Africa and then the Italian campaign. The name "Lady Ellen III" is after the pilot's wife Ellen; they were married in May 1942 just before he deployed to Europe

Shooting this famous machine today reminds me of my first encounter 52 years ago!

The prototype 2-seat Spitfire. Was repainted in this all-yellow scheme in 1974. Current in 2023 flying as MT818.

Taken in the Summer of 1974

The prototype 2-seat Spitfire. Was repainted in an all-yellow scheme by 1974. Current in 2023 flying as MT818.

Ex N32 (Class B), MT818. Registration cancelled on 3 July 1986 on sale to the USA where it became N58JE. Restored as G-AIDN on 4 March 2008 initially based at Kemble, then High Wycombe. It was owned at the time of the photograph by John S. Fairey.

Ex N32 (Class B), MT818. Registration cancelled on 3 July 1986 on sale to the USA where it became N58JE. Restored as G-AIDN on 4 March 2008 initially based at Kemble, then High Wycombe. It was owned at the time of the photograph by John S. Fairey.

Sole Spitfire Mk.VIII Trainer original prototype, rare aeroplane owned by Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar (BHHH)

Built in late 1944 as F.VIII MT818. Converted to T.8 with 'B Conditions' identity N-32. Registered G-AIDN by Vickers Armstrong in 1947. CFS Gnat T.1 XP501 at right.

Viv Bellamy flying Billy Butlin (later Sir) in the rear seat taking part in the Daily Mail London-Paris race.