A torpedo bomber plane that saw a frontline service throughout the Second World War has been spotted over the Hampshire skies.

Many residents looked to the sky on Wednesday morning to see an iconic WWII plane – the Fairey Swordfish swooping through the air.

The Fairey Swordfish was designed in the late 1930s by the Fairey Aviation Company and primarily used by the Royal Navy as a torpedo bomber.

It is understood that the plane was heading to Kent for the 85th Anniversary of Dunkirk.

READ MORE: Southern Water set end date for Redbridge Flyover works

Daily Echo Camera Club member, John Scamell said: “Saw this plane flying over riverside park Southampton early yesterday morning heading towards Portsmouth.”

The Swordfish earned a reputation for being tough and able to survive in challenging conditions.

Many pilots and crew members credited its sturdiness and ability to take damage and still complete missions during the war.

The plane was officially retired in 1945.