PRIME Minister David Cameron has thrown his support behind plans to build a massive tribute to the Spitfire, the Daily Echo can reveal.

Mr Cameron has praised proposals to salute the famous fighter aircraft by constructing an international landmark that will tower over Southampton’s waterfront.

Billed as the city’s answer to the Statue of Liberty, the huge structure will stand taller than the Angel of the North.

Plans for a Spitfire tribute were unveiled two years ago after a long-running campaign by the Daily Echo to honour the men and women who flew the Second World War plane.

Gordon Brown backed the scheme when he was Prime Minister.

Now Mr Cameron has added his voice to the growing chorus of support for the project and has also promised to visit the iconic structure.

In a letter to the city council he says: “Few sights conjure up more nostalgia and pride than the silhouette of a Spitfire against the sky.

“It’s a sight that stands for courage, for resilience, for freedom and for British ingenuity.

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“That’s why I am delighted at plans to erect a huge and prominent tribute to the Spitfire – and to all who designed, built, maintained and flew them.

“This is going to be one of the first things people will see as they enter Britain and through its size and its symbolism it should create a powerful first impression.

“I wish your fundraising efforts every success – and look forward to seeing the tribute in Southampton in the years to come.”

Last night the Prime Minister’s support for the scheme was welcomed by Cllr John Hannides, chairman of the Spitfire Tribute Foundation and the city council’s Cabinet member for leisure, culture and heritage.

He said: “I am delighted that the Prime Minister has taken an interest in the project.

It serves to underline the significance of providing a national tribute to the Spitfire.

“As head of Her Majesty’s Government his support will underline the value of the project and hopefully help the fundraising efforts.

“This globally significant tribute will be the biggest and most significant tribute to the Spitfire in the world. It will be an international landmark.”

The Spitfire was designed by the legendary R J Mitchell, who lived and worked in Southampton.

It was built at the Southampton Supermarine factories and at 28 other sites across the Hampshire area after the original buildings were destroyed in bombing raids.

The Spitfire played a vital role in the Battle of Britain, which foiled Nazi Germany’s plan to invade the UK.

A national competition last summer to design a huge monument to the aircraft attracted more than 300 entries. The winning design is by Australian Nick Hancock.