R.J. Mitchell was born in 'The Potteries' before the first aeroplane flew. His short but brilliant career as an aircraft designer spanned almost all the significant years of British aviation history until the outbreak of World War Two.

Designing a succession of 24 aircraft which saw service in all parts of the world, Mitchell made an outstanding contribution to the success and development of his firm, Supermarine.

Follow the links to find out about this local hero - voted Greatest Midlander of all time in a BBC poll in 2003.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council acknowledges the support of the Sydney E Frank Foundation in celebrating the life and work of R J Mitchell. For more information go to www.rjmitchell-spitfire.co.uk