PIRATES in York have been raising money for charity.

Staff at York Theatre Royal have geared up for the latest production by York Opera by dressing up and collecting change from theatregoers.

Pirates of Penzance ran last week and was the last York Opera performance at the theatre before it closes for an eight month refurbishment in March.

Vicky Biles, general manager of York Theatre Royal, said: "It’s great to be working in partnership with York Opera to collect donations during this week’s run of The Pirates of Penzance.

"We’ve had a long standing relationship with York Opera, and always look forward to welcoming them to York Theatre Royal. We look forward to being able to provide better facilities for them when the new theatre opens."

The theatre launched a public fundraising appeal in October to try and raise £500,000, and hoped to raise about £1,000 from the collection, which ended on Saturday.

Following the refurbishment, the theatre will have new catering and cafe facilities, and a new look auditorium and stage.