PROUD PAUL’S PEACOCK WINS TOP BOAT AWARD

Boat builder Paul Lil’s spectacular peacock-themed boat at this year’s Matlock Bath Illuminations has won him a top prize.

Paul, from Matlock, created the pick of this year’s fantastic fleet – ‘Peacock of the Peaks’. The unique parade on the River Derwent – featuring a record breaking 14 boats this season is the highlight of the Illuminations this October.

And it was a proud moment for the Lil family as Paul’s 13-year-old son, Brandon was placed fourth in the boats competition with his creation, ‘Dumbo of the Dales’.

Andrew and Vanessa Pugh of the Heights of Abraham presented prizes to the boat builders at Saturday's Illuminations after visitors to the event’s opening night the previous Saturday voted for their favourite craft.

‘Peacock of the Peaks’ will now have the honour of leading out the famous parade for the remainder of the 2025 Illuminations season. Paul Lil was presented with the Arkwright and Centenary Cups, plus £500.

In second place were stalwarts of the Matlock Bath Venetian Boat Builders' Association, the Motley Bunch – Pete Hartshorn, Christine Dence and Richard Wood from Matlock with their boat, ‘Knuckles’, based on the Sonic the Hedgehog character. They win the Plumtree Cup and £490.

In third place with ‘You’re Going To Need A Bigger Boat’, a tribute to the Jaws movie, was David Gregory from Matlock, competing for a 54th year. He wins the Sheffield Wire Rope Cup and a £430 cash prize.

Brandon Lil won the Dave Sanderson Trophy and £400 for his fourth place.

The Compere’s Award, presented by Geoff Stevens MBE, compering the event for a 57th year, went to newcomers to the parade, Richard Tate and son Nathan, for their ‘Disneyland Paris Comes to Matlock Bath’ model.

It's a friendly competition, with all non-prize winners receiving £350.