BRADFORD’S ‘top of town’ became the high seas for the day thanks to a parade of pirates.

Drummers, cyclists, stiltwalkers and street performers donned eye patches, hooks and flamboyant outfits to wind their way through streets and markets, entertaining the crowds.

It was the first in a free series of arts events called Creative Streets, designed to attract people into the ‘top of town’ area.

Today's celebration was put on by Shipley arts company Q20 and Bradford Capital of Cycling.

Captain Hook, aka John Lambert, of Q20, said they had received a great reaction from the crowds.

He said: “It has been amazing. It has exceeded expectations.”

He said in the run-up to the event, they had been visiting local schools teaching pupils about costume design, and many of the children had also turned up on the day to enjoy the show.

The whole programme is running until Sunday, April 30, around Darley Street, North Parade, Kirkgate Market and the Oastler Centre. Events are free.