A SEA of pirates will congregate on Poole Quay this weekend when Harry Paye Day returns.

The town’s annual swashbuckling celebration of its favourite pirate son Harry Paye takes place on Saturday.

Land lubbers and salty sea dogs are encouraged to dig out their eye patches, earrings and cutlass for the popular event organised by the Pirates of Poole.

Harry Paye Day will start with a bang at 12pm when cannons are fired to mark the start of the celebrations which will then be set off every hour on the hour.

The Parade of Pirates will then take place along Poole Quay followed by a fancy-dress competition at 1pm which will be judged by the Mayor of Poole Cllr Sean Gabriel.

Visitors will also be treated to musket displays, belly dancing and stalls, while children will be able to enjoy rides, a teddy bear tombola and face painting.

The event, sponsored by Poole BID and Jenkins Marine, is part of the Poole’s Wave 105 Summertime in the South line-up.

People will also be able to sample grog from the pubs, bars and restaurants along the Quay and even enjoy the odd sea shanty or two at the two live music stages.

SpiderPig, Hugh Budden & the Blue Chords, Innocent Bystander will perform on the Main Stage, while Quiet Donkeys, Blame George and Vintage Dogs will play at the Fish Shambles opposite the Lord Nelson.

This year’s event will raise money for local charities Victoria School, Dorset Blind Association and Margaret Green Animal Rescue.

Marty Caine, Pirates of Poole secretary, said; “Join us for a day of great fun celebrating Poole’s Maritime History and raising money for local Poole Charities. So dress in your best pirate get up, have your photo taken with a mermaid and bring your dubloons for some almighty charity fundraising fun.”

Graham Richardson, Tourism Liaison Manager, Bournemouth & Poole Tourism, said: “Paye Day is a fantastic family event that gets everyone out and celebrating Poole’s rich history. There’s so much to see and everyone really gets into the spirit. So get practicing your pirate speak, dig out your fancy dress and let your inner pirate loose.”

Poole Quay will be closed to traffic from 9am and will reopen by 7pm.