In Search of Donald Campbell (6)

Image: © Peter Trimming Taken: 16 Oct 2009

Being of a "certain age", I recall how we school boys marvelled at the achievements of Donald Campbell; regarded as a national hero. We were, therefore, shocked when Donald was killed, on Coniston Water, in January 1967. If I had been told, then, that I was to see Donald Campbell's Funeral procession, I would have thought it very strange. In 2001, "Bluebird" was recovered from the lake. Some weeks later, Donald's body was recovered, and there was talk of a Funeral in Coniston. I had booked a few days holiday, with the intention on doing some long cycle rides in and around the Lake District. I thought how strange it might be if the Funeral took place whilst I was staying locally. I thought no more about it until 11th September. After two long, hard, days on the bike, I had decided that the next day would be Coniston and Brantwood; I was tired, and the weather was forecast to deteriorate. Returning to my accommodation, I put on the TV; there was continuous coverage of the 9/11 attacks in the U.S.A. In the local news, details of Donald's Funeral were announced. Simple for me; reverse my Coniston/Brantwood plans, and I might well see the procession. En route to Brantwood, the next morning, I was cycling fast down a steep section of main road on the west of Coniston Water, when I was conscious of a hearse travelling in the opposite direction. A Union Flag was draped over the coffin. Some hours later, having had lunch, then sought refuge in the Sun Hotel, Coniston, to avoid the heavy rain, I joined the crowds outside the church to watch the long procession file past, on foot, and into the church. I then made my getaway, on bike, through closed roads. Some 8 years later, this was my first opportunity to seek out Donald Campbell's grave. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Campbell

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