These autocannon shells were discovered by Murray in a field near Betchworth, Surrey. They likely came from a Supermarine Spitfire engaged in combat with the Luftwaffe more than 80 years ago. The Spitfire, Britain’s most famous fighter aircraft, was armed with 20 mm Hispano autocannons, weapons capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute. These shells were designed to bring down enemy aircraft quickly and decisively, giving the RAF a crucial edge in the skies.
Surrey skies saw their share of dogfights during the Second World War. Pilots would have scrambled from nearby airfields such as RAF Kenley, one of the front-line stations during the Battle of Britain, and RAF Dunsfold, later home to squadrons flying offensive missions into occupied Europe. Each scramble placed young pilots in extraordinary danger, and many never returned.
These discarded shells, corroded by time, are silent reminders of the courage and sacrifice of those who flew from Surrey’s airfields. Their presence in the soil marks the reality of aerial combat overhead and the debt we owe to “The Few” whose bravery helped to secure Britain’s survival during its darkest hour.
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