A PIRATE themed weekend is taking place at Loch Katrine on the Steamship Sir Walter Scott and Lady of The Lake.

As part of Scotland’s special Year of Young People, this will be held on Saturday, July 21 and Sunday, July 22.

In a bold move to avoid being press ganged into the navy, a band of Ner do Well Pirates will attempt to take over the vessels on Loch Katrine for the weekend.

They will however, need a crew to run their ship to perfect their escape.

Pirates of any age are welcome, especially those in fancy dress.

Organisers will be awarding a bag of pieces o’ eight for the best dressed pirate on each cruise throughout the weekend.

Take part in a treasure hunt at Trossachs Pier with gold (chocolate) for those that can find where x-marks the spot.

The pirate weekend is being organised by the Steamship Company with the support of the Walking Theatre Company.

Alana Mathers, of the Walking Theatre Company, said: "We are delighted to be returning to glorious Loch Katrine for a swashbuckling Pirate adventure aboard the Sir Walter Scott Steamship this summer.

"Our madcap pirates are preparing for a rip-roaring adventure in the hopes of uncovering the hidden treasure... are you brave enough to join the voyage?

"All pirates and wannabe pirates welcome... big and small.”

Stuart Brain, operations manager of the Steamship Sir Walter, said: “We are looking forward to what promises to be a great weekend family fun weekend with a series of cruises with lots of pirates on board and shoreline treasure hunts in stunning surroundings.”

All cruises depart from Trossachs Pier at 10am and 11.30am on the Lady of the Lake and 1pm, 2.30pm and 4pm on the Steamship Sir Walter Scott.

Ticket prices, adult £16, U16 £12.50, U5 £5.

Price includes a cruise, treasure hunt and ice cream for those that successfully follow the clues.

Join the band of merry men on the vessels and take along your best pirate costume.

To book tickets please phone 01877376315.

Details available on the website here.