Families were treated to a nautical but nice adventure when a majestic pirate ship dropped anchor in Alton.

The Alton Lions should be full of pride as their recent annual Pirates in the Park event in the Public Gardens was a swashbuckling success.

The park came to life as soon as Captain Jack Sparrow leapt ashore with the seafarers treating Altonians of all ages to afternoon of activities, food and entertainment.

Landlubbers of all ages were given the chance to join a fun-filled treasure hunt and walk the plank over shark infested waters by a crew of lively shipmates.

There were more highlights than a Pirate of the Caribbean film with a bouncy pirate run, BBQ, bar, live music from Tripwire and a host of have-a-go activities.

The pirates were given the thumbs up to hoist the Jolly Roger by Alton Lions president, John Mill, and town mayor, Cllr Annette Eyre, as the pair opened the event.

The latter also judged the Bushy Leaze Children and Families Centre pirates fancy dress competition alongside its head, Becky Hussey with each child getting a prize.

Participants also took part in a special pirates conga led by Cpt Jack – otherwise known as Dean Phillips with the Lions mascot also joining the party.

Bushy Leaze will also get their own treasure chest from the event as the centre will be the main beneficiary of the 14th annual Alton Lions Party in the Park.

Other charitable organisations also set up stall to raise funds and their profile while Alton’s also firefighters also made a brief appearance.

At the end of the party Mr Mill thanked supporters and his fellow Lions for their effort and energy in delivering another great event, with Cpt Sparrow adding a fitting final line: “Not all treasure is silver and gold, mate.”