VIDEO: Matlock Bath Illuminations 2014

The Matlock Bath Illuminations burst into life on Saturday with the first in the season’s schedule of events.
Matlock Bath Illuminations opening night. Pictured is Pete Hartshorn 1st place for his Biplane boat.Matlock Bath Illuminations opening night. Pictured is Pete Hartshorn 1st place for his Biplane boat.
Matlock Bath Illuminations opening night. Pictured is Pete Hartshorn 1st place for his Biplane boat.

First prize winner of the boast show was ‘Last One Home’, a tribute to World War One biplane the Sopwith Camel, built by the Motley Bunch.

Second prize this year went to Matlock’s David Gregory – competing for the 44th consecutive year – with his entry ‘Not Quite Crown Derby’, inspired by the china steam train designed to celebrate the christening of Prince George.

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In third place was ‘Fireman Sam – Ready for Action’, designed by Ian Page, of Cromford, followed by ‘Chitty on Tour’ in fourth, inspired by Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Matlock Bath Illuminations opening night. Pictured is Pete Hartshorn 1st place for his Biplane boat.Matlock Bath Illuminations opening night. Pictured is Pete Hartshorn 1st place for his Biplane boat.
Matlock Bath Illuminations opening night. Pictured is Pete Hartshorn 1st place for his Biplane boat.

Derbyshire Dales District Council chairman Councillor Geoff Stevens, who has compered the Illuminations since the 1960s, said: “The boat builders continue to be the stars of the show, and on a beautiful clear night, the moment all of the boats switched on their lights on the Derwent was absolutely breath–taking.

“The district council is immensely proud to stage a unique family experience, and we are hoping for good weather during the season to hit our target of 100,000 people coming into Matlock Bath to boost tourism, trade and jobs locally.”

The illuminations run until October 25 and visitors can enjoy five firework nights to be staged on the last Saturday in September and every Saturday in October.

For further information and to book ticket online, visit www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk/Illuminations

To view a video slideshow of the event, click on the link above.