WHILE formations dazzled Swindon in the sky today the public took a closer look at replica World War Two aircraft on the ground on Saturday.

As part of Swindon Heritage’s week-long series of events to mark 75 years since the Battle of Britain, a Hurricane and Spitfire were wheeled out for shoppers to have photos and see their real scale.

Brought in on the back of lorries and assembled by volunteers in the early hours, the Spitfire stood in Wharf Green, while the Hurricane was stationed outside Debenhams in The Parade.

Throughout the day there was a steady stream of interested parties, from all ages, who looked on in awe at the size and shapes of the planes.

Maria Porter, 49, of Abbey Meads, said: “They’re just marvellous, aren’t they? They are such iconic shapes and so important to our history.

“It’s a lovely idea to have them here in the town centre among the shoppers. It’s inspiring to see how much interest the youngsters are paying them.”

Richard Peters, 33, of Westmead, said: “My boys have loved it. It was something my dad had passed on to me when I was young. I was brought up with the Battle of Britain film.

“This is different to when you see them in the air. You cannot recreate that noise, but this is perfect for letting people actually seeing the scale and beauty of these machines.”

Olivia Spurgeon, 71, of Chiseldon, said: “These machines are such big parts of our history. We must be thankful to Swindon Heritage for making this happen.

“They might not be the real thing, but still an excellent idea for putting this in the forefront of people’s minds.”

Displays, exhibitions, stands, stalls and a swing band were also used as part of the day too.