Spitfire Trailer Crash Sparks A3 Gridlock
A replica Spitfire en route to a 1940s show on the Isle of Wight sparked chaos today when its trailer flipped on the A3 near Burnt Common.
Trailer Loses Control, Blocks Lane
The southbound carriageway between the B2215 London Road and Clay Lane near Burpham was brought to a crawl after the trailer carrying the life-size plane sheared off and crashed into a tree embankment.
Police described the scene as “absolutely chaotic,” with one lane blocked and traffic tailing all the way back to M25 Junction 10 at Wisley.
Plane Built Over 28 Years
The replica Spitfire was built piece-by-piece over 28 years by Terry Arlow, using parts from genuine Spitfires. He was heading to the Isle of Wight for a vintage 1940s event when disaster struck.
Police Confirm No Injuries
A Surrey Police spokesman said:
“At around 11:15am today (Friday, 1 July), a vehicle towing a trailer with a light aircraft became detached. The trailer then left the road and collided with a tree. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.”
Recovery crews remain at the scene clearing the trailer and aircraft, with road disruptions expected to continue for some time.
