Withernsea was awash with pirates of all ages as the second festival for would-be buccaneers and salty sea dogs was held.
Scallywag Jack led a pirate parade from the Castle Café, near Pier Towers, around the town and to Valley Gardens for the rest of the fun, games and pirate shenanigans. Drums, whistles and tambourines were the order of the day, as Withernsea’s pirates made sure to start off the event with plenty of noise.
Festivalgoers were encouraged to appear in fancy dress, with categories for adults, children, dogs, mobility aids, motorcycles and motorcyclists. The programme included dancing and shanty singing, a fossil hunt, a selfie station, children’s entertainment and storytellers, and of course there had to be a rum station.
A post from Withernsea Pirate Festival at the conclusion of yesterday’s (Saturday, July 19) event said: “Thanks to everyone who turned out in the rain today.” The organisers acknowledged everyone, from volunteers and stallholders to acts and refreshment providers and “most of all our wonderful town of Withernsea”, adding: “Hopefully next year will be better weather.”
There was lots of praise from festivalgoers, with Jim saying: “As I’ve probably got the biggest gob in Withernsea can I say on behalf of the town a big THANK YOU to Lin Wilson and Will Wilson for organising a great day. Your hard work was rewarded with great support from people of the town. Nice to see a lot of local councillors being involved. Big up to them.”
Emma said: “Was a great day, thanks so much Lin and everyone who was involved” while food vendor Yes Chef replied: “Thank you for having us, the weather may not have been on our side but it certainly didn’t dampen the spirits of the pirates.”
Sharon said: “Friends of Withernsea Lighthouse would like to thank you for allowing us to attend this great event and despite the weather we had a blast”; Withernsea Carnival said: “Always happy to support great events” and Paul said: “Looking forward to next year already. Had a great time thank you.”
Below you can find just a snapshot of the pirate fun enjoyed by Withernsea.
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