A replica of the legendary Supermarine Spitfire has been installed on top of Vanguard Self Storage’s iconic West London building on the A40 between Perivale and Hanger Lane, marking today’s (8 May 2025) 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
The full-scale model, now perched on the roof and visible to commuters, pays tribute to the courage of RAF pilots who defended Britain during the Second World War.
Vanguard, with longstanding family connections to the military, has spent six decades assembling a distinctive collection of historic military artefacts. The Spitfire, one of its most recognisable additions, is intended as a powerful symbol of remembrance.
Will McCullagh, managing director of Vanguard Self Storage, said: “The Spitfire holds a special place in the hearts of so many, and by showcasing it on top of our West London branch, we hope to inspire remembrance and pride. Visitors are always welcome to pop in to any of our stores to view our exhibits and displays first-hand.”
The company’s collection also features a Hawker Hunter jet – presented to Prince Philip in 1953 – which now hangs in the atrium of Vanguard’s Staples Corner site. In Bristol, an English Electric Lightning, the only UK-designed fighter capable of reaching Mach 2, is dramatically suspended above the reception area.
Back in Ealing, a replica Mark IV tank named Edwin was first installed on the A40 rooftop in 2014 to commemorate the centenary of the First World War. The newest addition to the collection is a meticulously restored WZ450 Vampire, now proudly on display at Vanguard’s Bath branch.
 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.){kind=link}