PIRATES abandoned their ships in favour of historic trains at a seaside themed fun day.

Locomotion, the National Railway Museum at Shildon, County Durham, held the Pirate Train’ing event to reflect how Victorian railway travellers often enjoyed excursions to the coast during the summer.

Throughout yesterday (Sunday, August 24) and today (Monday, August 25) children were treated to pirate themed craft activities, games and a treasure hunt in the museum’s giant sandpit.

There were also exciting tales about life on the high seas from the notorious pirate and storyteller Captain Raggy Beard, which enthralled youngsters and adults alike.

Today (Monday, August 45) was also an opportunity for local people to find out more about Locomotion

The Local Residents’ Day saw presentations about the museum and its events programme take place at 11am and 2pm.

For more information about the museum and upcoming events and activities visit nrm.org.uk/planavisit/visitshildon.