Press Release: 17 July 2015 Two records smashed 60 years ago on Ullswater Sixty years ago, on 23 July, 1955, Donald Campbell achieved two historic milestones on Ullswater. He set a new World Water Speed Record (WWSR) and broke the 200mph barrier on water. Here began a long record breaking relationship with his jet boat Bluebird K7, the world’s first all metal jet-powered hydroplane, originally powered by a Metropolitan- Vickers Beryl jet engine! K7 went on to help Campbell set seven world water-speed records between 1955 and 1964. The very first of which he broke on a summer’s day on Ullswater more than half a century ago, achieving a speed of 202.32 mph (325.60 km/h). Why did Sir Donald choose Ullswater? Perhaps like many he regarded the lake as the most beautiful of the English lakes, and certainly as the area’s second largest, at nearly 9 miles long, ¾ of a mile wide and up to 200ft deep it more than served his purposes. To find out more about Campbell you can visit The Lakeland Motor Museum, Newby Bridge, and visit their exhibit, which pays tribute to both father and son, Sir Malcolm and Donald Campbell, who between them captured 21 world land and water speed records in the Bluebird series of cars and boats. Highlights on display include full size detailed replicas of the 1935 Blue Bird car, the 1939 boat – Blue Bird K4, and the famous jet hydroplane - Bluebird K7 in its 1967 in its 1967 form. Donald Campbell was tragically killed on Coniston Water in January 1967, whilst attempting to break his own water speed record. His body wasn’t recovered until 2001 and is now buried in the Parish Cemetery, Hawkshead Old Road, Coniston. During a visit to Coniston you must visit the Ruskin Museum, which contains a wealth of information about Campbell’s connection to the village, and his achievements. The Museum will also become permanent home to K7, Campbell’s boat, which was recovered from Coniston Water and is currently the subject of a painstaking restoration project. For further information about Ullswater including events and cruises please visit: www.ullswater-steamers.co.uk For more information about the Campbell at the Lakeland Motor Museum please visit: www.lakelandmotormuseum.co.uk For more information about Campbell at the Ruskin Museum please visit: www.ruskinmuseum.com Ends Notes to Editors: 1: For additional information or to arrange a press trip please contact Greg Stephenson on 01539 825060 or e-mail [email protected] .