SWASHBUCKLING 'mini' pirates went home with their own treasure chests of booty after a special themed event in Porlock. Youngsters from Tiggy's Nursery in the village took part in a pirates day as part of the Bookstart programme, a national initiative which encourages parents and carers to enjoy books with children from as early an age as possible. Dressed for the part, the youngsters sang sea shanties, listened to pirate stories, hunted for buried treasure in the nursery grounds and even baked their own 'buried treasure muffins'. And at the end of the day's activities each child received a treasure chest to take home, containing books, crayons, a reading guide and even a secret compartment for storing their favourite pieces of eight. Nursery teacher Jan Rooke, who organised the day, said the children were thrilled with their unexpected treasure. "We are so grateful to our local library who arranged delivery of the Bookstart chests," she said. Jan is pictured with young pirates Freya Morris, Charlie Connor and Oliver Dixon. Photo: Steve Guscott