Corgi AA27603 Hawker Hurricane Mk.I V7357/SD-F, Sgt. J.H ‘Ginger’ Lacey – 60th Anniversary Collection

Hawker Hurricane Mk.I V7357/SD-F, Sgt. J.H ‘Ginger’ Lacey, RAF No.501 Squadron, Gravesend, Sep 1940

The exploits of the glorious ‘Few’ during the Battle of Britain are the stuff of legend and standing right at the head of this illustrious group of men was James ‘Ginger’ Lacey, Hurricane pilot and proud son of Yorkshire. Flying throughout the Battle of Britain, Lacey was credited with eighteen aerial victories, making him the second highest scoring British fighter ace of the Battle – every one of these victories were gained whilst flying the trusty Hawker Hurricane. This latest Hurricane release is an essential addition to any Battle of Britain collection.

The Hawker Hurricane is arguably the most important aircraft in the history of the Royal Air Force, specifically as it heralded the development of the modern, monoplane fighter. It combined the finest construction techniques already in place with the best biplane aircraft and was relatively easy to manufacture – the Hurricane was certainly the right aeroplane at the right time and in Britain’s hour of need, proved to be absolutely crucial. During the savage dogfights of the Battle of Britain, the Hurricane accounted for more Luftwaffe aircraft destroyed, than all other British aircraft combined. A magnificent gun platform, the Hurricane could also absorb significant battle damage and still bring its pilot home – this was critical in Britain’s eventual success and was rather reassuring for the Hurricane pilot.