Shiver me timbers! The East Sussex town of Hastings could soon be awash with brigands and sea-dogs for Pirate Day on 6th August 2010 as the town attempts to set a world record for the largest gathering of pirates in one place. Organised by local landlubber Roger Crouch and the Old Town Traders, last year’s inaugural event is back by popular demand and has inspired the local population to go for the Guiness World Record for the largest number of people dressed as pirates in one place.
The current record is 1,670 pirates, who gathered in the American town of Portland, but Roger is confident that the record can be brought to Hastings. ‘If you know our Jack in the Green and Hastings Bonfire festivals, you’ll know that the people of Hastings love any excuse for fancy dress. We had hundreds of people here last year so it shouldn’t be too hard to break the record’.
Taking place during Hastings Old Town Carnival Week, which runs from 31st July to 8th August 2010, the attempt will take place on August 6th at 13.00 on the beach. The record attempt will be the climax of the day, which will also include a colourful pirate procession, Pirates of the Caribbean look a-likes, songs from the Pirates of Penzance and live music from the fusion Afro beat band Superfunk Pirates who will be filming footage for their new DVD during the event.
With a packed programme of events which range from the annual seaboot and pram races to ghost walks and High Street Traders’ party, Hastings Old Town is the place to be during the first week in August. Many events are free and there’s something for all ages, but when you come don’t forget to bring your parrot!
For further details of Hastings Old Town Week activities and what to do in Hastings see: www.visit1066country.com
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Do you know that the town of Penzance, Cornwall – the original home of the “Pirates of Penzance” is holding a Pirate Day on August 7th 2010.