Bluebird K7, the boat belonging to Donald Campbell, is set to run again on Coniston Water, according to the Ruskin Museum. The hydroplane, which broke a world speed record, crashed in 1967, killing its pilot. The wreckage was recovered in 2001, and after a legal battle, was given to the Ruskin Museum.
The Ruskin Museum’s statement read, “We are happy to announce that the boat will run again on Coniston at a time to be agreed.” The hydroplane’s restoration was completed by engineer Bill Smith, who became embroiled in a dispute about its ownership. He eventually relinquished his claim, allowing the museum to take possession of the craft.
The museum wishes to get the boat running on Coniston Lake again, and will apply for permission from the Lake District National Park Authority. Jeff Carroll, vice-chair of the museum’s trustees, said, “We have an engineering team in place to take the boat to the next stage on its journey.” In August 2018, the reconstructed craft was placed in water in Scotland, while under Mr. Smith’s care.
Gina Campbell, Mr. Campbell’s daughter, expressed her delight at the announcement. She said, “At last, I shall be able to fulfil my promise made to Coniston way back in 2001 that Bluebird would return to the village and people that my father held so dear.
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