SHIVER me timbers and ahoy me hearties - because legions of pirates and princesses are set to be unleashed on the local area.

On Friday, February 14, people across South Lakeland will don fancy dress and channel their inner Jack Sparrow or Snow White, in a bid to raise cash for the Jigsaw children’s hospice.

“Everybody at the children’s hospice is really excited at the prospect,” said Emma Marshall, fundraiser for Jigsaw, which used to be Eden House Children’s Hospice.

“The money raised will make a huge difference to the lives of local children and young adults with life-limiting illnesses.”

Jigsaw was developed following the Jigsaw Appeal, an initiative of Eden Valley Hospice, to develop the children's day care unit into a four-bedded residential unit.

All services are provided free of charge by highly qualified staff, thanks to the genersity of local people.

It is now hoped residents right across the area will take part in the Pirates and Princesses Day, by donning an eye patch or tiara - or even a full outfit - and donating £1 to the hospice.

Hospice staff are also encouraging local businesses to stage their very own ‘mutiny on the Bounty’.

“The children’s hospice would like employees to ‘kidnap’ the captain of their work place and a ransom paid to Jigsaw for their release,” said a spokesman.

Anybody who would like to sign up is asked to contact Emma Marshall on 01228-817656 or visit www.jigsawhospice.org.uk/pirates