WHAT? Pirates spotted in Grasmere.

Fret not mi' hearties, the scurrilous band, led by Long John Silver himself, have sailed into the Lakeland village with the Jolly Roger hoisted high to beat young Jim Hawkins' to Captain Flint's hidden gems in Grasmere Players fun-filled pantomime.

Packed with daring deeds, music, romance and some ambitious special effects (not to mention an island inhabited by a tribe of blood-thirsty female cannibals), Treasure Island - the Panto is written and directed by Annie Miller and runs at Grasmere Hall on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (December 11/12/13, 7.30pm).

Tickets are available at Barney's Newsbox, Broadgate (015394-35627), price 4 adults/ 2 children. There is also a 2.30pm Saturday matinee.