PIRATES braved stormy conditions on what was anything but dry land for a community carnival.

Worthing was out in force to enjoy its annual rotary carnival procession despite a lashing of wind and rain yesterday.

While the wet weather was a world away from Rio, the parade from Grand Avenue to Steyne Gardens in the town was led by the Celebration Samba Band for the first time.

To add to the spectacle, the roguish of all pirate rogues Captain Jack Sparrow, or at least the country’s leading Jack Sparrow impersonator Melo Sparrow, was at the centre of the rain-splashed action.

Hundreds of people lined the streets to follow the carnival that has been an annual favourite in Worthing since the 1920s.

Free entertainment on the day included a live stage show, Grove Lodge Dog Show, a beer tent, food stalls and Steven’s Funfair taking place throughout the day although a planned market had to be cancelled because of the winds.

All three of the town’s Rotary clubs – Worthing, Worthing Steyne and West Worthing – came together to make the day a success.

And participants refused to be defeated by the weather.

Members of the Kompact Theatre tweeted yesterday: “Come rain or shine we will be performing today at the Worthing carnival at Steyne Gardens at 3:55pm.

“We'll be doing one of our events sets.”

Worthing Youth Mayor Jenny Hirst said: “Despite the wind and rain, a few hardy Worthingites braved the storm for the Rotary Carnival.

“You are truly British, my friends.”

Goring management consultant Peter Hall tweeted: “I feel really sorry for Worthing carnival participants and any spectators.

“I will send a cheque to Worthing Rotary.”