Council chiefs have shot down claims they’re involved in the removal of a knitted spitfire outside the Atkinson.
The life sized display has been on show since mid October and was taken away this afternoon, sparking a flurry of complaints about it not staying for Remembrance Sunday in two days time.
Many said the council should be ashamed of themselves and did not show respect to armed forces veterans with reports claiming the Spitfire was away in favour of the town’s Christmas Tree.
However Sefton Council have waded into the online dogfight to deny any involvement in the controversial move, saying people should raise any issues they might have with the Royal British Legion.
A council spokesperson said “It has been a wonderful and emotive month seeing the incredible life-size crochet Spitfire in the Town Hall Gardens on Lord Street, with this morning being the last day to see it before it is sensitively taken down.
“The tribute is dedicated to the Polish Airmen who flew from RAF Woodvale during World War II and marks 80 years since the end the war and so many of you have taken the time to go and see it.
“A huge well done to the Southport Branch of The Royal British Legion, Merseyside Polonia and, of course, Southport Hookers who painstakingly crocheted a series of square panels that are overlaid on a lightweight wooden frame. The frame was built by Bootle’s Men in Sheds Association.
“Some of you have been asking why the display is being removed before Remembrance Sunday and believe this to be a Council decision.
“It is not.
“Led by the Southport Branch of The Royal British Legion, the installation was always due to run until November 7th and organisers have stated publicly that there would be a clear gap between its removal and the annual service at Southport Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday (November 9th)
“This gives the incredible volunteer team time to reflect and attend events on Remembrance Sunday and beyond.
“As is the case every year following Remembrance Sunday, the space within the Town Hall Gardens will then play host to the annual Southport Christmas Tree throughout the festive period.”