Don Wales joins British Steam Car Challenge

The British Steam Car Challenge was established to set British and world land speed records in excess of 200mph. Following the death recently of Frank Swanston, the team manager, some restructuring of the team has taken place.

Don Wales has joined as test driver – a role previously undertaken by Swanston. Wales is the nephew of the late Donald Campbell and grandson of Sir Malcolm Campbell. He has considerable experience of speed record attempts and set the land speed record for electric vehicles in 2001 – driving Bluebird Electric at an average 128mph over a measured mile.

The British Steam Car Challenge will compete at Bonneville Speed Week 2008 in August – both Donald Campbell and Sir Malcolm Campbell set records on these salt flats. Speaking of the appointment of Don Wales, Charles Burnett III, founder of the team and principal driver, said: "It’s nice that we have another Brit on board – one with an incredible family history of speed record attempts. Don's experience will be invaluable."

In the bid to secure the record in 2008, several other people have joined the team. New placements include, Matthew Candy – Engineering Administrator & Strategic Planner, Clive Hawkins – Technician and Chris Yates – Fabricator.