Dozens of people braved snow, rain and poor road conditions to travel to Coniston on January 4th to celebrate the life of Donald Campbell who was killed in his Hydroplane Bluebird K7 on January 4th, 1967.

This year was special because it was the first time that the “skipper” and his boat had been in together in Coniston since the famous hydroplane was recovered from Coniston Water in 2001.

The commemoration started with wreath laying at the Campbell memorial in the centre of the village, which also commemorates the life of his engineer, Leo Villa.

The event was run by the K7 Club which was inaugurated at the Sun Hotel in Coniston on the 7th of November 1957 after Donald celebrated his 239-mph record.

K7 Club President, Anthony “Robbie” Robinson who was accompanied by his wife Elizabeth, welcomed those present and announced that three new members had been elected to the club, which is by invitation only; Jeff Carroll the Chair of Trustees at the Ruskin Museum, and Tracy Hodgson who is Museum Director. They were both thanked for their work in bringing Bluebird home. Brian Eastham, who is Gina Campbell’s partner, was thanked for being a tower of strength to Gina over the years.

Mr Robinson led prayers at the memorial where floral tributes were laid by the K7 Club, Speed Record Club and members of the public.

Guests were then invited to walk to the Graveside in St Andrews Church, where a short service was held. The K7 Prayer, written specially for the club was read.

Gina Campbell, who addressed those present, said: “Today is a very special commemoration because it is the first time that the skipper and his hydroplane have been together in many years and that means a lot to me, my partner Brian, all of you and all those who fought so tirelessly to bring her back.”

She added: “It is also special because it is the start of a new chapter with plans to run the boat on Coniston Water next year. This is attracting tremendous interest, which is echoed today. As I look around those that are here, I see many old faces, and many new ones who are just starting their association with a great man and a boat. That is a very important part of Britain’s heritage.”

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