Experience being a WWII fighter pilot as new Spitfire simulator takes flight

Yesterday, the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery launched the Spitfire Simulator on the anniversary of Battle of Britain Day.

The simulator, commissioned and owned by Operation Spitfire, has been designed to feel authentic in the cockpit, with realistic interiors and controls.

It comes as the city prepares to celebrate its Centenary in 2025, with a year-long programme of events and activities celebrating its heritage and more.

In an event attended by dignitaries including the Lord Lieutenant, Ian Dudson, High Sheriff, Julia Mitchell, and Leader of the City Council, Councillor Jane Ashworth, the simulator was unveiled by Lord Mayor, Councillor Lyn Sharpe and Stoke-on-Trent’s ‘real life Top Gun’, Nathan Gray.

The local fighter pilot Nathan walked away from an ‘unsurvivable’ crash at RAF Wittering in 2002 and went on to become one of the UK’s elite test pilots. Nathan has spent time with the simulator and was impressed with the realism.

Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent Cllr Lyn Sharpe, said: “As a proud Stokie, it’s an honour to be asked to cut the ribbon on the brand new Spitfire simulator. I’m really proud of our heritage and it’s something I want to shout about during my time as Lord Mayor, especially as we approach our Centenary.

“Reginald Mitchell attended Hanley High and we all know about his contribution to aviation history including the Spitfire. The simulator is fantastic and incredibly realistic and I hope it will help inspire the next generation of children in the city to aim high.”

Julian Mitchell, great nephew of Spitfire designer Reginald Mitchell, said: “The simulator not only gives visitors the chance to actually sit in and fly a Spitfire, but it’s core to a new school’s curriculum package developed by Operation Spitfire and the Museum which we’re currently rolling out to local schools, it’s all about making history relevant through education."

The design and construction of the simulator has been carried out by students, apprentice technicians and staff at the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Nottingham led by Dr Mark Jabbal.

Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of the council, said: “The Spitfire Simulator is a massive achievement in technology and construction.

“With the talents of so many people and the generosity of Operation Spitfire and Peter Coates, this is an amazing addition to the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery and is yet another reason why the museum is a great place to visit in Stoke-on-Trent.

“This is fantastic to have as we approach our Centenary year, we are incredibly proud of our heritage and of our contribution to the nation and that’s why we included the Spitfire in our Centenary logo.

“I encourage everyone to visit the museum, have a go on the simulator and experience what it’s like to fly a Spitfire.”

Booking for the simulator are now open. For more information, and to book, go to www.stokemuseums.org.uk/pmag/spitfire-simulator/. Residents who do not have access to the internet can book in person at the museum.

Photo taken by Martin Tideswell @MartinTideswell