Youngsters and their families had a novel way of raising money for Children in Need.

To tie in with National Book Start Day, which had a pirate theme this year, Seashells Children and Families’ Centre encouraged everyone to dress the part.

There were two events yesterday (Thursday), one at Sheerness Library and one at the nursery.

At the library there were craft activities including making pirate hats and patches and face painting.

More than 60 people attended and it raised about £200.

At the nursery, staff all paid a £1 to dress up as pirates and the Sheppey Pirates came in and read stories to the children.

Di Daniels, nursery manager, said: “It was a fantastic day.

“The kids all enjoyed it and we were able to use the Sheppey community, it was a community event.”