A PIRATE invasion took place in Buckhurst Hill, but residents had nothing to fear- it was only youngsters on a day out.

Children at Queens Pre-School, in Queens Road made their own pirate outfits before setting off on a mission to find treasure around the parish.

After hearing a stirring story about the lost 'gold', the youngsters had to follow their own treasure map marking off sites along the way including sea monsters, caves and bridges.

At the end of their search, the grateful young buccaneers were rewarded with their treasure- medals, chocolate and a certificate for taking part. Money was also raised for children's charity Barnados.

Pre-school manager Anna White said: “It was great fun and the children had great costumes. The children were so excited when they found the treasure.”