PIRATES will be running along Weymouth Esplanade competing against rowers in the sea for a charity fun run.

The Beat the Gig event is hoping to attract dozens of participants in swashbuckling fancy dress to raise money for Weymouth Rowing Club.

Members are hoping to boost funds to buy a fourth gig rowing boat, which would be used to attract more young people and less able people to the sport of rowing.

The event is taking place on Saturday, June 7 and people can walk or run a choice of 3km or 6km routes.

Both runs start and finish on the Esplanade opposite Alexandra Gardens, near the Pavilion. The longer route turns at the Oasis Cafe, the shorter opposite the pirate crazy golf course.

Elsa Hirst, spokeswoman for Weymouth Rowing Club, said: "We're happy for everyone to take part - runners, walkers, wheelchair users, accompanied children and dogs on leads - children and dogs go free. Entrants should wear an item of pirate clothing, which can be as simple as a hoop earring, scarf or eye patch to the whole works.

"There will be lots of prizes for the best pirates, and treasure' for everyone who takes part, at the end."

After a good aerobic warm-up to suitable pirate music, runners and walkers will set off with one aim - to beat the gigs, which will race alongside in Weymouth Bay.

More than 100 members of the rowing club, which is based on Weymouth Harbour, are involved in this event, either as a pirate rower, a bucketeer, marshal or other helper. To request an entry form call 01305 788122 or email elsahirst@hotmail.com On-the-day entries will also be welcome.