Blue Bird returns to Pendine for centenary of land speed record
THE ICONIC Sunbeam 350hp Blue Bird will return to Pendine Sands on Sunday (July 21) to mark the 100th anniversary of Sir Malcolm Campbell's historic 1925 land speed record.
The legendary vehicle, which reached a then-unprecedented speed of 150.766mph (242.628 km/h) on Pendine beach, will be on public display outside the Museum of Land Speed from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Visitors to Pendine will have the chance to photograph the vehicle and witness its dramatic return to the sands where it made motoring history.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Blue Bird will also be taken onto the beach during the day for a commemorative photo opportunity. The event will include the unforgettable sound of its V12 engine—a rare treat for car enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
The car, which was christened Blue Bird by its driver Sir Malcolm Campbell MBE, was the first to break the 150mph barrier and remains one of the most iconic machines in British motoring history. Now part of the National Motor Museum's collection in Beaulieu, Blue Bird last visited Pendine in 2015.
Cllr Hazel Evans, Carmarthenshire's Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture and Tourism, said: 'We are delighted to welcome the spectacular Blue Bird back to Pendine. This event offers a fantastic opportunity for motor enthusiasts and visitors alike to see the legendary vehicle up close and celebrate its deep connection to our coastline.'
Jon Murden, Chief Executive of the National Motor Museum Trust, added: 'We are excited to honour such a landmark World Land Speed Record anniversary with this and other events throughout the year. This is a moment to reflect on the Blue Bird's significance in motoring history and to share its story with new generations.'
A dedicated section on the National Motor Museum's website charts the history of the Sunbeam 350hp Blue Bird at:
https://nationalmotormuseum.org.uk/sunbeam-350hp-blue-bird/
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