The launch event at the Bluebird Inn, Samlesbury, saw the official opening and first pint pulled by Gina Campbell, daughter of Donald Campbell CBE, with special guest Mr Whoppit. Mr Whoppit was Donald Campbell’s teddy bear mascot who was in the cockpit on all of Campbell’s drives, and has since been adopted by Gina Campbell for her own record-breaking attempts.
The £1m+ refurbishment was named following careful consideration and in discussion with Donald Campbell’s family. The Bluebird K7 was the jet engine hydroplane with which Donald Campbell set seven world water speed records during the latter half of the 1950’s and 1960’s. It was built by Samlesbury Engineering, now part of British Aerospace, opposite the pub and seemed to be the perfect opportunity to honour this iconic craft.
Gina Campbell, said; “My father would love this pub and he would be looking down saying have a pint for me. We’re delighted that they have remembered the K7 Bluebird in Samlesbury where the engine was built.”
William Lees-Jones, Managing Director JW Lees, said: “Donald Campbell and Sir Malcolm Campbell were heroes of mine. It’s a privilege that the family were happy for us to name this pub after the Bluebird.
“We’re proud to return the pub to its former glory as a high-quality country inn. We’ve brought to life the charm and sophistication that was lost over the years along with great hospitality, fantastic beers and traditional food. A timeless pub like the Bluebird Inn needs fantastic people and we’ve got a great team.”
The Bluebird Inn opened with a fantastic new identity and a transformed offer, providing top quality drinking and dining. The newly designed bar and dining areas offer a relaxing place to enjoy award-winning cask ales, quality wines and homemade pub food. The 20 comfortable bedrooms have been redesigned to be in keeping with the character of the property and other JW Lees Inns.
