Pirates swarmed into Royston on Saturday for the town’s annual pirate day.

Royston Crow: Georgia Pitt had her face painted for Pirate Day. Picture: Clive PorterGeorgia Pitt had her face painted for Pirate Day. Picture: Clive Porter (Image: Clive Porter)

Despite the rain, pirates organised a host of activities to entertain scores of budding shipmates all day, including walk the plank, and a meet and greet with Pete the Pirate.

Young pirates also got to take part in the treasure trail, complete with treasure map and clues which led them around the town centre to discover the hidden treasure. and visitors were encouraged to don their best rags, and eyepatches for the fancy dress competition.

Royston town manager Geraint Burnell said: “The ever-increasing numbers participating in this event each year really speaks for itself.

“My personal opinion was that this year we offered the best variety of activities to date – an opinion clearly shared by the public who contributed comments such as ‘best yet’ and ‘absolutely brilliant!’”

Thanks are expressed by organisers Royston First to Sally’s team from Retail Revival, and to Hitchin Property Trust for the loan of their retail unit. The fancy dress photo gallery of 60 competitors will be in the window of number 53 High Street for the next week.