‘TIS almost time for thousands of hearties to swashbuckle their way down to Poole Quay for the long-awaited return of the annual celebration of its favourite pirate son.
Harry Paye Day will return to the Quay for the first time since 2019 on Saturday, June 18, with thousands expected to dig out their eye patches, don their earrings and celebrate all things pirate.
Held annually since 1922, Harry Paye Day is organised by the Pirates of Poole and will once again feature a parade of pirates, followed by live music, best dressed competitions, games, rides, live history areas, food, drink and plenty more shenanigans.
Due to pandemic related restrictions, the popular Quayside event has not been held since 2019 when more than 10,000 people attended – the longest break in festivities since the Second World War.
Event organiser Brian March said its return has been a “long time coming”. He told the Echo: “The goalposts shifted so many times during Covid and it was far from ideal.
“But we have had to adapt like all businesses and for a small community group we’re sure this is going to be a glorious day. We’ve had so much support from the Poole community, having reached out to various pubs and businesses, the council and Poole BID – they’ve all been tremendous and have helped make this happen.
“We’re of course a pirate-themed event so everyone can get involved very easily as it doesn’t take much to dress like a pirate, all you need is a willingness to be a bit silly.”
The free event is also raising money for two good causes, with Poole Hospital Charity and Dorset STARS (a sexual trauma charity) set to benefit from the festivities.
Food and drink kiosks will also benefit from the event’s return, with Brian saying many traders make more earnings on Harry Paye Day than throughout the winter period.
Brian added: “Harry Paye Day is essentially a community fun day at the beautiful quayside. So come and join in, come and be silly, and enjoy all the good things Poole has to offer – and don’t forget to put on your sunscreen.”
The event will begin at 12 noon on Saturday, lasting until around 6pm. Visit piratesofpoole.co.uk for more information.
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