RJ Mitchell Trophy for Innovation
The trophy is formed out of metal from the wing spars of a Spitfire MK356. It takes its inspiration from the graceful lines of the aircraft and the innovation of its creator.
The metal has been donated by the RAF Battle of Britain Flight. MK356 was built in 1944 and during its career was damaged three times. It also saw operational service on D-Day where it gave cover patrol to an invasion beach head.
Since the end of the war it has been used as an instructional airframe and a gate guardian, returning to the skies in November 1977 as part of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
Reginald Joseph Mitchell (1895-1937)
RJ Mitchell invented the battle-winning Spitfire.
During his career Mitchell designed and developed 24 aeroplanes over a 20 year period. The single-seat spitfire was designed between 1934 and 1936, entering service in 1938. It was a hybrid of many diverse technical developments and a masterpiece of practical engineering design.