Yes the Pythoneers and Phoenixeers are back together for one of the biggest events on the Inland Waterways. Early on Friday morning, Michael picked up Pete, Maurice and me for the trip to Burton-upon-Trent. After a brisk walk with three bags and a tool box (see why later), we found Python at her mooring between the show grounds and the 360 boats spanning 1.5 mile down the canal each way!

Here take a look for yourself:

The boats go on and on...

And on...

And on...

Here's a great shot of Python:

A great weekend was had by all the crew. We were joined by Arthur, who came on the train, and also all those from the James Brindley promotional trailer and tombola stand! Fortunately we all didn't sleep on the same boat! But Pete, Arthur, Maurice and I did. We were 20 foot too small but it was O.K. for just the weekend! On Friday night we didn't get to bed till 2 o'clock in the morning and I'll go onto why...

As mentioned in previous blogs, Friday night was the night of the illuminated boat display! Python was the only Historic boat to do it out of 11 boats altogether. What can I say other than it was an absolute high. At the helm, Mick did a fantastic job especially in the pitch black with lights blaring in his face! Pete and I were on the sound desk controlling music, lights and the special effects smoke, which Mick, Maurice and Arthur loved on the back! Here's some piccies but click the link at the bottom for a video. By the way, we came 5th out of 11, even though we weren't themed (flowers & beer)!

Getting ready for the parade and checking with the local police for our pyrotechnics! 9.00PM.

You now know why I had a tool box! Here's a shot of Python in the Dark!

(Photo by Adam Crick)

Link to video walk around: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bw87fl5oSE

See some more pictures of the IWA Festival here: http://timlewis.smugmug.com/Other/Historic-Boats-at-The-2011IWA/18362197_MsThgr#1414738592_39W3Fw9

Meanwhile check out the next few blogs on Python's trip back up the River Trent and find out what things Python's up to in the next couple of months!

Written by: Thomas Flewitt

Photos by: Thomas Flewitt and Michael Edwards