A WARTIME Spitfire emblazoned with “Thank U NHS” flew over Essex as part of a special tribute to the amazing NHS heroes working during the coronavirus crisis.

The flight started at 10am when the aircraft took off from Duxford Airfield near Cambridge and it was spotted flying over Colchester Hospital at about 4.20pm on Friday.

Gazette Camera Club members also saw the Spitfire flying over Eight Ash Green as it headed towards the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance’s base in Earls Colne.

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Among them was Rob Moore who said: “I’m proud to work for the NHS and getting to be a part of things like this make it special.”

The Aircraft Restoration Company says it organised the flypast to thank the NHS and boost community spirit.

The Essex tour also saw the Spitfire fly over Broomfield and Braintree hospitals.

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