PART-time pirates and outstanding oarsmen are the subjects of our look back into the history of Furness this week.

The still surface of the Ulverston Canal - famous for being the straightest and deepest in the UK - has played host to hundreds of hours of fun and games in years gone by.

For those growing up in Furness the Ulverston Raft Race was a time honoured tradition observed every year during the town's charter festival.

Although it has not taken place since the 1990s, it still holds a fond place in many people's hearts. Whether dressed as pirates, characters from the Wizard of Oz or simply in a vest and shorts, the race was a fantastic way for locals to bid farewell to the summer.

In September of 1988 were you one of the pirates who manned the 'Saucy Sue', or perhaps you recognise one of the nightgown-clad paddlers on the Wee Willie Winky Raft.

Head to www.nwemail.co.uk to see more pictures from raft races gone by, and visit our Facebook page to tag your old friends.