Driver Donald Wales, 37, clocked 126mph on one of three runs in his �400,000 Bluebird Electric before 2,000 spectators on Pendine Sands in South Wales.

But it was well short of the 215mph target.

Don Wales: "gutted"

Further attempts were called off because of the incoming tide and continuing mechanical problems.

Now the team says it must find another �10,000 if it wants another try next weekend.

Mr Wales, grandson of Sir Malcolm Campbell and nephew of Donald Campbell - both of whom were holders of the record during their time - was breaking family tradition by driving a more environmentally friendly vehicle.

He said: "We just got beaten by an electronics problem which wouldn't go away. It's galling and I am gutted.

"Getting this event on the Sands has cost thousands and I just don't know if we can get the funds for another attempt next weekend, but we will try.

Sir Malcolm Campbell: Called on for inspiration

"I don't know how to express my disappointment. At one point I was hoping my grandfather was watching from somewhere. We needed some divine inspiration, but in the end the electronics problem got us."

Sunday's drive had already been postponed for a day after a land mine from a nearby Ministry of Defence testing range was found on the beach.

Wales did go faster than his own British record of 116mph - but because the car cut out it did not count.