Now, a quarter of a century later, the Optimists once again have a pirate-themed entry, Ghost Ship – and the Bouchard cousins, now aged 29, will take pride of place at its helm, hoping again to steer it to success.
The 45 ft float depicts a fully-rigged ghostly pirate ship, which will be swaying from side to side with cannons firing. And if it picks up the top award today it will be the sport and social club’s fifth consecutive Battle win.
Nic, who works as an IT consultant in Bolton but returns to the Island for the Battle every year, said that in the 25 years that have passed the pair have both taken part in every parade, with either the club’s junior or senior entries.
