"The previous recognised record of 54 historic narrowboats at a rally was hit with a barge pole, " said Coghlan. "This was only our third event. The first in 2003 attracted 28 boats.

Last year we saw an increase to 38, which seemed impressive enough at the time."

The rally was formally opened by TV soap star Zita Sattar (staff nurse Anna Paul in Casualty ) by steering the last surviving steam narrowboat President into the marina where she declared the rally open - to the sounds of Braunston's church bells and the Daventry Brass band.

Coghlan told BB the event was recorded for Carlton TV and will be included in its Waterworld series in February, 2006.

A highlight of the rally was the twice daily parade of historic narrowboats, led by President , towing her butty Kildare . All profits are to be donated, as usual, to canal and local causes, the main recipient being the canal charity, Friends of President.

The success of these three rallies has overtaken all our expectations, " enthused Coghlan.

"The event is now well established as THE historic narrowboat rally.

"And NO! we are NOT bringing back the Braunston Boat Show, just the bit that doesn't click at Crick - that gathering and parade of historic narrowboats, with all the atmosphere and interest it created."