March pirates set sail for sixth festival at Wells
A group of pirates from March at Wells Pirate Festival. Picture: Ian Burt. - Credit: Ian Burt
A group from March made a 110-mile round trip to take part in Wells Pirate Festival earlier this month.
Setting sail for its sixth year, the town on the North Norfolk Coast was filled with themed activities and people embracing the pirate’s way of life.
From Smugglers Cove to boat trips and weapon demonstrations - there was something for everyone, including make-shift wooden legs, eye patches and the iconic “ahoy”.
Becky Jefcoate, one of the festival’s organisers, said: “It’s gone really well; it was a shame about the weather on Saturday, but it was great to see people still coming out dressed up - some pirates even had umbrellas.
“There were boats in the harbour and one of the highlights was Blackbeard’s Bingo and the ghost walk.
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“People were able to go and watch films about the history of the area and heritage at the Wells Maltings Building before the arechlogical dig starts there in two week which has been really popular.”
The event returned to the town for the sixth year and is the main fundraiser for the Wells Maltings Trust.
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This year’s theme was Back to the Beginning, as the building at the centre of the festivities - the Wells Maltings Building - is where the first Pirate Festival was held.
Miss Jefcoate added: “It’s good to be able to go back to where it all started.”
Families followed the treasure trail hunting for gold and re-enactors recreated dramatic fighting scenes.
Daniel Kelly, from Thetford, dressed up with his two sons for the festival.
He said: “It’s great fun and there’s something great about seeing people of all ages dressed up and getting involved.”
Another pirate, Wendy Millhouse, said: “Shiver me timbers, it’s a bit cold but a little water never stopped us.”
Escaping the downpours, some pirates were enticed by the photography exhibition at the Sackhouse and rum cocktails.
Money raised for the Wells Maltings Trust will help to restore historic Maltings and Sackhouse buildings in Wells.
