There is no need to fear the pirate ship on its way to Earlsfield as it will soon be the centrepiece of the Swaby Gardens playground.

The play area is getting a £163,000 makeover and in the centre will be a replica pirate vessel, complete with ropes, nets, slides and a lookout tower.

Children’s services spokeperson Councillor Kathy Tracey said: "I’m sure that all those who sail in the Golden Ghost will find it tremendously exciting.

"It will be a great addition to Swaby Gardens and provide hours of imaginative fun for small pirates."

Along with the ship the improvements to the playground, which were voted on by residents in a recent consultation, include a new triple bay set of swings and new rubber-based safety flooring.

Artificial grass is also being installed.

Work to "anchor" the ship, which will be carried out by Enable Leisure and Culture, is expected to begin next year.