Don Wales and mower at Pendine Sands
Britain's Project Runningblade has successfully claimed a new world land speed record for lawnmowers, although the hoped for 100mph-plus didn't materialise.
On Sunday 23rd May, the Countax mower built for the campaign was driven to a record of 87.833mph which, while not as impressive as 'doing the ton', is still a pretty mean feat.
The record was set at Pendine Sands, scene of many previous LSR attempts. The mower was ridden/driven by Don Wales, nephew of Donald Campbell and grandson of Malcolm Campbell.
In support of the achievement, the National Motor Museum (which backed the project) has sent one of its most popular exhibits, the 1920 350hp Sunbeam to the Museum of Speed at Pendine Sands where it will be on display until the 20th June. The Sunbeam, the original Bluebird, was the first car to break 150 mph, a record that Sir Malcolm Campbell achieved on Pendine Sands in 1925.
Taking its place in the National Motor Museum is 'Babs' the car in which John Parry Thomas set a new world land speed record at Pendine Sands in 1927. Sadly, during an attempt to improve on his new record, he was killed when 'Babs' skidded and rolled over.
Project Runningblade is now on display in the National Motor Museum beside a collection of legendary world land speed record cars including Donald Campbell's Bluebird. It will remain in the museum when not required elsewhere for its 'victory tour' to various events around the country, raising funds and awareness for the two charities the Project has supported - Great Ormond Street Hospital and Wessex Heartbeat.