The contribution of Commonwealth nations in the fight against the Axis is today rightly recognised far more than in previous decades. However, a perhaps less glamorous but nonetheless vital part of this contribution was financial. Among the largest donors to Britain’s cause during WWII was the small Kingdom of Basutoland (now Lesotho), in southern Africa. Despite its small size, with a population of just over 400,000 at the time, the country directly financed 24 Spitfires – planes that helped defend Britain’s skies during 1940 and beyond.
As thanks for this extraordinary gift, in 2016 the Spitfire Heritage Trust donated a full replica of the iconic aircraft to the nation of Lesotho. This is just one of the projects the Trust has organised as part of its work to educate future generations about these incredible aircraft.
In History of War issue 64, readers have the chance to win a bottle each of Spitfire Gin and Supermarine Vodka, created by British company Spitfire Heritage Distillers. Concocted by award-winning distiller John Walters, Spitfire Gin is made with two types of orange, almonds, borage, coriander, rosemary, star anise and rose petals.
As well as these two quality bottles to enjoy responsibly, one lucky winner will also receive a commemorative, 22-carat-gold-plate Spitfire Heritage pin, making a fantastic total prize value of £100.
For your chance to win, you simply need to answer the question below correctly, be 18 years or older and a UK resident. If you are not yet a subscriber to History of War, there are some fantastic print and digital deals available online at www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk, where you can save money on the cover price.
Click here or more information about Spitfire Heritage Distiller