ThyssenKrupp Materials' support of the Bluebird Project

ThyssenKrupp Materials’ support of Bloodhound SSC®

For thirty-four years following Donald Campbell's fatal accident in 1967, his world water speed record boat, the jet hydroplane Bluebird lay undisturbed until 2001 when she was salvaged by an amateur team.

In 2006, after two failed attempts to raise lottery cash, the decision was taken to rebuild her without any guaranteed funding. The team would need sponsors.

Built of an aluminium skin on a steel frame, her structure although badly disrupted was in good physical condition but much of the aluminium would require extensive reworking. ThyssenKrupp Materials (UK) was one of the first sponsors to pledge their support, with a ready supply of aluminium sheet in various grades and thicknesses with which to repair and replace as necessary. Our expertise in matching modern equivalents to materials last used in the 1950's and material contribution has ensured that Bluebird is not only as authentic as humanly possible but also fit for purpose. It is the intention of the Bluebird Project to return the boat to her spiritual home in Coniston, Cumbria and run her again under her own power in a triumphant homecoming.

With a purpose built museum on the shores of the lake that guarded her for three and a half decades, and her own unique byelaw to allow her to run faster than the 10mph speed limit, Bluebird is destined to finally close a chapter in history.

• Top