Sir Malcolm Campbell’s Bluebird K3 hydroplane has made a dramatic comeback, 80 years after it broke the water speed record.
The vessel was put through its paces at Bewl Water near Lamberhurst, Kent, after a detailed restoration to help bring her back to her former glory.
(Andrew Matthews/PA)
Sir Malcolm edged out US rivals to set three records with Bluebird K3 and its extensive restoration has been a “labour of love”, according to current owner Karl Foulkes Halbard.
(Andrew Matthews/PA)
Bluebird K3 set three records including two in glorious two days on Lake Maggiore in September 1937, before raising the bar to 130.91mph at Lake Hallwyl in Switzerland in August 1938.
(Andrew Matthews/PA)
The rebuilt engine and electrics were tested out at Bewl Water.
(Andrew Matthews/PA)
Howard Mackenzie of Bewl Water described it as a “historic vessel” and said it was “a great honour” to have it running at the venue.
(Andrew Matthews/PA)
Bluebird K3 first went into the workshop to be restored in 1990. It is part of the Foulkes Halbard Collection at the Filching Manor Motor Museum near Eastbourne, where the restoration has been taking place.