Firm helps to recreate Campbell’s Bluebird 50 years after death
got in touch with us.”
The donations have allowed the restoration to proceed without the pressure of a deadline that would come with other means of funding.
Mr Smith added: “The idea is that one day you’ll be able to look at archive photos, look at the restored Bluebird and not see the difference.
“The anniversary will come and go as we rebuild the Bluebird but she is a national treasure and we’ll take a long as we need.
“You can’t display the Bluebird in a museum as a wreck, the chemistry wouldn’t support it. It’d continue to degenerate.
“We’re very thankful for the support of Thyssenkrupp and all of the sponsors, donors and volunteers who continue to make this project possible.”
A new engine based on the original design has now been fitted to the craft, and Bluebird roared back to life in November for the first time since that horrific day in 1967.
Dean Melling, director of commercial materials at Thyssenkrupp, said: “We are delighted to be providing material to help support Bill and his team return the Bluebird to its former glory.
“We’re delighted to be associated with a truly unique piece of British history, known to many all around the world.
“I’ve been liaising with Bill personally on the project over the last few years and it’s been exciting to watch it progress. We look forward to seeing the Bluebird out on Coniston Water once again some day in the future.”