Hydroplane is a step closer to running on Coniston Water in 2026.

Two Orpheus engines from the Bluebird K7 have been sent to North Weald in Essex to be refurbished by an expert team.

The engines are slightly different from the original one that powered the boat in the 1966/67 world record attempt.

One engine will be installed in the hydroplane, while the other will be kept in reserve.

Tracy Hodgson, director of the Ruskin Museum, said: "We are delighted to be working with Pete Walker and his team.

"This is the start of a schedule of works in the planned event of running Bluebird K7 on Coniston Water in 2026, and we are honoured to be working with some the best engineers in the aviation business."

Jeff Carroll, vice chair of the Ruskin Museum, said: "We’ve been fortunate to be able to source a second mark 101 Orpheus with a great many of its ‘flying hours’ remaining.

"We’re working with people who are the most familiar with Orpheus Engines in the UK, probably globally.

"The aim is to have two serviceable engines to keep K7 operable well into the future."

Mr Carroll added: "Pete Walker’s team will inspect both engines and replace any perishable items – hoses etc., prior to testing outside the boat.

"K7’s primary engine will then be fitted and tested within the boat and all systems checked for operation.

"This should be positive news for the many Bluebird K7 and Donald Campbell fans nationally and internationally and builds on our aim to run Bluebird in 2026."

Mr Walker, the chief engineer who will be working on K7’s engines, has been dealing with Orpheus engines for the last 40 years.

(L) Connar Holland, trainee, and (R) Peter Walker, chief engineer (Image: Supplied) Previously in the RAF, he was responsible for certifying the engines for Gnat training aircraft.

He said: "It is great to be part of the Ruskin Museum’s plan to put Bluebird K7 back on the water.

"Our team of engineers, myself, Connar and Nigel, who probably have more experience with Orpheus engines than anyone else in the world, will make sure that they are totally up to spec."

Mr Walker and his team maintain a number of historic Gnat training aircraft, previously used by the Red Arrows.