PIRATES staked their claim to Highworth at the town's annual May Day festival.

The streets were packed with people enjoying the sun and the fancy dress costumes on display.

Those attending were impressed with the entertainment on show.

Val Goodwin, from Highworth, said: “It’s been an excellent day. People are coming in from Swindon and the crowds been great. The organisers deserve a pat on the back.”

Denis Healy, from Highworth Cider Bars said: “We’ve very nearly sold out today. It’s been phenomenal with the number of people here and the variety of stalls. And the heat has been tremendous.”

Live bands performed on the main stage as the perfect weather continued into the afternoon.

There were more than 80 food and drink stalls, raffles and prizes, as well as a pirate ship, and traditional dances by the Icknield Way Morris Men.

Morris dancer and assistant stick man Pete Abel told the Adver: “At the end of the last century there was a revitalisation of the Morris and as you can see today, we have Morris dancing.

"We are here, we are merry, and we keep the tradition alive. We enjoy ourselves and we hope everyone else does as well. It’s thirsty work and that’s why we like the odd pint of beer or two.”

One of the organisers Sandra Rendall said: “It’s been really good fun and I think the weathers brought every one out. We’ve had a good crowd, good entertainment, and good music. It’s all run on donations. We are a good community. It’s more of a village feel here and it’s just a really nice thing to do.”