Celebrating Kath Gaisford: Last Living Spitfire Factory Worker's 100th Birthday Milestone

Kath Gaisford, the last living secret Spitfire factory worker in Salisbury, recently celebrated her remarkable 100th birthday, marking a significant milestone in history and honoring her contributions during World War II. During the Second World War, when Southampton's production facilities were bombed, the secret Spitfire factories in Salisbury played a crucial role in building around 2,500 Spitfires clandestinely. Among the workforce was young Kath Gaisford, who at the age of 18, volunteered to be a part of this top-secret operation. Recalling her days at the Castle Street and Hudson's Field factories, Ms. Gaisford shared her experiences of building wings for the iconic Spitfires. She reminisced about the process where the structure of the wing was meticulously crafted before being passed on to riveters to attach the outer "skins." The workforce was a diverse mix of unqualified individuals, including girls, boys, women, elderly men, and experienced engineers, all united by the common goal of supporting the war effort. Ms. Gaisford vividly described the secrecy surrounding the factory, with a blacked-out front entrance to conceal its true nature from prying eyes. The workers had to use a discreet side door to clock in, ensuring that the factory's purpose remained hidden from the public. Despite the challenges and hardships of wartime, Ms. Gaisford fondly recalled the camaraderie among the workers during the night shifts, where they would play pranks on each other in the darkness, bringing some levity to their demanding tasks. She also shared her passion for ballroom dancing, highlighting how she found joy and solace in her hobbies amid the tumultuous backdrop of war. As the last living link to Salisbury's secret Spitfire factories, Kath Gaisford's story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience, courage, and dedication of those who served in the shadows to protect their country during one of its darkest hours. Her milestone 100th birthday celebration not only honors her remarkable longevity but also pays tribute to the unsung heroes who played a vital role in shaping history and securing freedom for future generations.