The reference to the "Pirates of the Caribbean parody" reminds us of the romantic notion of pirates that film and television have encouraged over the years. In reality, they are not loveably scallywags but bloodthirsty, pitiless thugs. It is sad that Mr and Mrs Lee had to endure such an event and top marks to them for the way they handled it. Top marks to Kankuntu the Dog as well; poor little sod. I hope that the experience doesn't blight their future lives. I also hope that the pirates try the same stunt with an armed to the teeth American mariner who would, no doubt, consign them to where they belong.

Many years ago, a pal of mine bought an ocean going sloop to see the World with. He'd spent a lot of time in the Rhodesian Army (at the time, that's what it was) and was very aware of possible threats to his security. I can't remember the precise details now, but his plans for suitable protection came to nought because of the jurisdiction of British firearm laws on a British flagged vessel.