David’s design shines out at Illuminations
THOUSANDS FLOOD IN TO SEE COLOURFUL BOATS AS HISTORIC FESTIVAL
THE spectacular Illuminations have returned to Matlock Bath, lighting up the autumn evenings.
Thousands of people packed on to the banks of the River Derwent on the opening night at the weekend to see boats light up the water as numerous different models made their way along the river.
Models included the Ghostbusters car, Sonic the Hedgehog, Convert-acar from Wacky Races and the design which won this year’s Arkwright and Centenary cups, a fabulous carousel featuring six horses all named after big Illuminations supporters who have died in recent times.
The annual festival, which dates back to 1897, was put on hold last year due to the pandemic, but this year has returned with a bang.
Covid is still having an impact with a reduced capacity of 4,000 in Derwent Gardens, meaning all of the year’s fireworks displays have already sold out.
Derbyshire Dales District Council leader Gary Purdy said: “Covid caused the cancellation of last year’s Illuminations but we were determined to bring it back for a 123rd year in 2021, albeit on a slightly reduced scale.
“The feedback from the first weekend is that Illuminations visitors are delighted to be back – and the boats are breathtakingly spectacular.
“We are proud as a council to make the Illuminations happen and provide a much-needed boost for local businesses, effectively extending the tourist season here in the Derbyshire Dales.
“We reckon this historic event attracts as many as 100,000 visitors into the area during its eight-week season.”
After the lights were switched on by chairman of Derbyshire Dales, Councillor Steve
Wain, almost 2,000 visitors cast their votes for the best boat with David Harrison’s fabulous carousel model coming out on top. Meanwhile, the traditional candle boat, which goes out before the main parade and is constructed by all the boat builders based on how the models used to look a century ago, is a tribute to the NHS and all other providers of essential services. It’s lit with more than 60 night lights.
The event will run through to Sunday, October 31, when the curtain will be brought down by a spectacular fireworks display.
We reckon this historic event attracts as many as 100,000 visitors into the area.
Gary Purdy