'Peacock of the Peaks' wins illuminations prize

A peacock-themed boat has won the top prize at the 2025 Matlock Bath Illuminations.

Paul Lill's design, which featured the bird with multi-coloured light-up feathers, was voted the winner by spectators at the traditional parade down the River Derwent over the weekend.

"Peacock of the Peaks" triumphed over a glowing Sonic the Hedgehog character, Knuckles, who settled for second place. Mr Lill's 13-year-old son Brandon also finished fourth with his elephant creation, Dumbo of the Dales.

Following his victory, Mr Lill, from Matlock in Derbyshire, said: "I felt complete shock but then followed by pure happiness, there's so many good boats on the river this year."

After finishing third in 2023, and second with his Optimus Prime design in 2024, Mr Lill said the aim was to go one better.

"The idea for the peacock came after having a chat with someone about how I used the colour changing LEDs for the Optimus Prime design," said the 48-year-old.

"I think every boat builder always thinks you could try a little bit more or do a little bit more but yeah, I was reasonably happy.

"I was more delighted that my son Brandon had already been given the fourth position before I was announced for first prize."

Organiser Derbyshire Dales District Council said this year's competition featured a "record breaking" 14 boats.

Mr Lill will now have the honour of leading out the parade for the remainder of the illuminations season, which ends on 26 October.

Leader of the authority, councillor Steve Flitter, said the illuminations "continue to play an important role in extending the tourist season by attracting around 100,000 people".

"I want to thank everyone who supports the illuminations and pay tribute to those involved in creating so much enjoyment, not least the amazing boats, which have been a constant feature down the years," he added.

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