PUNTERS, pirates and landlubbers can sail the seven seas from the back room of a Weymouth pub which has been transformed into the inside of a pirate ship.

A derelict former skittle alley at The Belvedere on Weymouth's historic old High Street has undergone a striking transformation thanks to a multi-talented crew of local tradesmen.

Dorset Echo:

Now known as 'The Pirate Keep' - named after a fictional pirate bar sung about by Dorset band The Dolmen - the room has been redesigned and themed to resemble the inside of a 1700's tall ship, featuring hand painted murals depicting a historical timeline, a huge fireplace built from scratch, and intricately carved panelling.

Dorset Echo:

Starting with a blank canvas, the job started with the restoration of the original pub floor by Weymouth carpenter Jamie Blair, who worked on the project over a period of around eight months during lockdown, creating all the woodwork including wood panelling around the room.

Several other talented local craftsmen helped breathe life into the work: the fireplace and beer pumps were built by Phil Coombs; cannons and a wooden door were created by Mark House, and Felix Thompson of Art Asylum in Weymouth painted the timeline and Pirates Keep signs. Local artist Sem Vine has painstakingly hand painted a series of murals and created a logo.

Dorset Echo:

Besides bringing a derelict room back into use, Belvedere landlord Lyn Mackenzie has provided locals with work during lockdown via the project.

Lyn said she is "incredibly proud" of their efforts and explained how her initial vision had been brought to life thanks to finding the right people to inject their own creativity and ideas.

She said: "The idea came about whilst I was having discussion with (local musician) Finn McGurk about the Trafalgar events, and the subject of medieval banquets came up. I initially had the idea of turning it into an old 1700 tavern with a historical timeline on the walls.

Dorset Echo:

"From there a discussion with (local historian) Mark Vine saw it evolve into a pirate ship theme, making it unique to this area."

An official opening event is being held on July 3 with bands throughout the day. The room will be available for bookings as a function room for parties for adults aged 18 and over, and open at weekends.

Dorset Echo:

Lyn added: "The level of craftsmanship and talent that has gone into the project is just outstanding. Although it's come from my original ideas I've not had to tell people what to do - they've used their own imagination and talents - the attention to detail and level of skill is plain to see. It has turned into something really special and unique."