A tribute to the strength and glamour of the Second World War’s flying ladies will be launched this week.
The female pilots of the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA) delivered fighters and bombers to airfields across the country during the conflict with 15 losing their lives in the attempt.
These “Spitfire girls” are celebrated in a new calendar marking the 80th anniversary of the first Spitfire flight, and 75 years since the Battle of Britain.
Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre launches the Spitfire Girls Calendar 2016 on Friday, featuring photographs of local young women dressed in authentic uniforms.
Photographer Neil Werninck, a founding member of the centre, said he got the idea when watching a TV programme about the ATA.
He added: “I suddenly realised that this was the perfect theme for a calendar to raise funds for Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre, especially as it has its own replica Spitfire, the Red Lichtie.”
Centre member and historian Dr Dan Paton said ATA pilots flew a variety of aircraft, from Tiger Moths to Lancaster bombers.
“They often had experience of flying far more types of aircraft than many RAF pilots,” he added.
“They were not expected to fight the enemy but it was still dangerous work, flying to many different destinations in all weathers.
“In fact, 15 of them lost their lives, including the famous pilot Amy Johnson, who delivered twin engine Oxfords to Montrose Air Station.
“Despite the danger, Spitfire girls were not allowed to forget they were women and their uniform featured a skirt, not the most practical garment for flying a plane.”
Mr Werninck photographed his 13 models in Montrose Air Station, the oldest military air base in the UK.
He said: “To ensure we captured the look of the Spitfire girls, the Barber’s Shop in Montrose offered to help with hair and make-up and, as a result, all our calendar stars are the epitome of 1940s glamour.”
Calendars can be ordered at www.rafmontrose.org.uk for £6.99 plus postage, or from the centre itself.