Hurricane: Victor of the Battle of Britain by Leo McKinstry (John Murray, £20) (From The Northern Echo)

Hurricane: Victor of the Battle of Britain by Leo McKinstry (John Murray, £20)

11:50am Saturday 10th July 2010 in

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THIS is bound to set the cat amongst the pigeons – putting the Hurricane above the Spitfire in the Battle of Britain.

It’s not quite that, of course, but McKinstry does make a good case giving the “Hurri” at least equal billing with the “Spit”.

The Hurricane made up more than half of fighter command’s front-line strength and its revolutionary design and durability were its key points and it was renowned for staying power and sheer guts in battle.

McKinstry not only gives you the mechanical lowdown, but keeps the human element well to the fore, praising the courage that held the Luftwaffe at bay.

A glorious period to remember and a glorious plane.