The annual Harry Paye Day celebrations are expected to attract around 5,000 revellers to Poole Quay today.

Organised by the Pirates of Poole and supported by Poole Tourism, the event features a host of people dressed as pirates - a nod to one of the town's most infamous characters.

See all the pictures of Harry Paye Day 2015 at Poole Quay in a gallery 

Pirate Harry Paye, known in Spain as Arripaye, plundered Spanish ships on the high seas throughout the late 14th and early 15th century.

During today’s event, which has become a favourite in the town's calendar, a pirate parade took place along the quay in his honour.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Anne Stribley, was on hand to judge the pirate fancy dress competition and there is a host of entertainment including canon and musket displays, belly dancers, stalls, face-painting and rides continuing into the evening.

Poole Tourism manager Graham Richardson told the Daily Echo: "It is going really well, it's been really busy all day.

"We had a lot of walking entries in the parade with lots of children dressed as pirates as well.

"I think it been the most popular fancy dress contest since the event has been running. Everyone is having a great time."

The tall ship Tenacious is also berthed on Poole Quay as part of the fundraising day, held to support charities across the town including Poole RNLI Lifeboat Station, Forest Holme Hospice and Victoria Education Centre.

Members of these organisations attended the event, with RNLI representatives taking part in the procession.

A free exhibition celebrating 150 years of Poole RNLI is currently running at Poole Museum until the end of August.

Mr Richardson said: "The Tenacious is proving very popular and we've got two music arenas here as well. I'd say around 5,000 visited the event."

In 1405 French and Spanish ships were making their way along the south coast when they learned Poole was Harry's home town.

In the subsequent revenge attack on the Dorset port, the invaders looted arms and stores. They were met by fierce resistance from Poole townspeople and many were killed on both sides before the attackers were driven out.

Today the modern Pirates of Poole organisation, which raises thousands of pounds for local causes every year, is looking to recruit new members. Are you up for the challenge?

Visit Piratesofpoole.com or email Piratesofpoole@yahoo.co.uk for more information.