The sun was shining and the scull and crossbones bunting was flying high in Church Walk Shopping Centre for the annual Pirates Day. Local store managers, their staff and the centre management team dressed for the occasion and Captain Jack Sparrow, Captain Smilie and Town Crier Sonia Hunt entertained the crowds.

Children had their faces painted by Bubblegum face painters and could learn about becoming a member of Caterham Sea Cadets.

The fancy dress competition was supported by 38 shipmates; shops donated prizes for the winners' goodie bags and every child who entered received a prize. The group of children comprising Pirates, Deck Hands and Captains paraded through the centre as shop keepers cheered from their stores. Captain Smilie compared the event with the winners receiving their prizes from Captain Jack Sparrow.

The judges were – Specsavers, Purrfect Pet Care Winners were:-

1st – Pirate Darcie Southon – 3 years old from Godstone

2nd – Pirate Samuel Kelly – 3 years old from Caterham who attends Noah Arc Prep School.

3rd – Pirate Sophia Bristow – 5 years old from Caterham who attends St Peter and St Paul School.

Children also took part in a shop window Treasure Hunt hosted by Thomson and supported by every shop in Church Walk Shopping Centre.

Shelley Filippi Centre Manager said: "We would like to thank all the public who supported our event by shopping locally. Morrison's provided free all day parking which ensured our shoppers could enjoy themselves and stay longer. We had a staggering 38 children for the fancy dress competition with an exceptionally high standard of costume and attention to detail. Caterham Dene League of Friends, The RAFA Wings Appeal and Caterham Sea Cadets join us on the day to fundraise via games of chance. We look forward to seeing you all at our Guys and Ghouls Day 27th October."