Donald Campbell’s record-breaking Jet hydroplane Bluebird K7 has returned to the Lake District.
Bluebird has been away from the Ruskin Museum in Coniston since February 24 for an engine to be installed.
Horizon Aircraft Services carried out the installation of Bluebird’s Bristol-Siddeley/Rolls Royce Orpheus 101 engine.
To support the preservation and planned operation of the hydroplane, Babcock International Group has joined the team at the Ruskin Museum as engineering partner, with senior engineering managers from Babcock having already carried out initial inspections to scope any required work.
Jeff Carroll, chairman of trustees for the Coniston Institute and Ruskin Museum, said: “It’s fantastic to have Babcock on board. Its reputation and breadth of engineering expertise means that we can ensure that Bluebird K7 will be in the best possible hands to help prepare her for the runs on Coniston Water in 2026.”
John Howie, chief corporate affairs officer at Babcock, said: “Bluebird K7 is an iconic piece of maritime history which Babcock is honoured to support.
“The hydroplane has been lovingly restored, and our skilled team of engineers will take great care and pride in supporting the project as we play our part in readying it for its run next year.”
Bluebird K7 will be away again during the low season later this year and early 2026 to ensure that all aspects of engineering, both structural and mechanical are in tip top condition in time for her running on Coniston Water in 2026.
She returned to the Ruskin Museum last Saturday, March 22, and was back on display in time to celebrate what would have been Campbell’s 104th birthday.
