BRIDPORT Museum is linking up with Bristol Radical History Group to bring history to life on the streets of the market town.

Events take place on Saturday, September 26, and will have a theme of Crime and Punishment.

Plans involve a debate in the Town Hall and a re-enactment of infamous pirate trials in Bucky Doo Square.

The talks in the Town Hall will start at midday and include smuggling, social crime, and an overview of crime and punishment in the 18th/19th centuries.

One aspect will look at how hanging, and the use of ‘the Bridport dagger’ – or noose – became an increasingly common as a way of controlling the working classes.

At 2pm the group moves to Bucky Doo Square and holds a mock pirate trial. This is a recreation of a play actually written and performed by pirates in Cuba in 1722.

They will dress as court officials, the jury and the accused, mocking the English State and judicial system, and reinforcing their own status as rebellious outlaws.

To lighten the day there will be a fancy dress competition for children with prizes for the best pirate.

Wrapping up the day will be an evening gig in The Ropemakers, with Dorset favourites Who’s Afear’d and the Boothill All Stars.

Kevin Davis from BRHG said: “Our events are about connecting people with alternative ideas of history, and celebrating the figures and events that have traditionally been ignored or written out of it.

“We hope to bring to life some of Bridport's fascinating history, and to en-courage lively debate and public participation around the town.”

Volunteer Co-ordinator Keith Hatch, said: “This promises to be a great day. Most people know that Bridport was renowned across the world for its rope and net making. There was a darker side to the industry, and the group will be bringing this to life.”

For more information contact Bridport Local History Centre on 01308 458703.