Ships ahoy! Pirate-inspired window art installations are in place in time for the Tall Ships Festival this month.

Gloucester Business Improvement District (BID) and the graphic design team at Gloucestershire College have joined forces to bring the installations to the city of Gloucester.

The project sees 12 sustainable art installations, varying in sizes and including both 2-D and 3-D art, in venues throughout the city centre to bring some swashbuckling family fun in the lead-up to the Tall Ships and Shanty Festivals.

Jess Colley and Ellie Toy, lecturers in graphic design, have led on the exciting project. Together they have created the family-friendly designs for a fun day out with kids, featuring some interactive elements and photo opportunities.

Wanting the trail to fully appeal to families, the designs are inspired by children's illustration books with a beautiful 'wonky and rustic' style.

Ranging from giant crabs, octopus, and parrots to seaweed, ships and a 6ft shark (plus a chest full of treasure thrown in for good measure) there's a lot to look out for!

As part of a 'Pirate Window Bingo' game, families will be able to cross off each of the art installs and note where they saw them to be in with the chance of winning a fabulous prize.

Launching this week, the 'treasure map' entry form can be picked up from the Museum of Gloucester and any of the participating locations. Once you have a full house, shout 'Pirate Window Bingo', complete the entry form on the reverse and return to the museum.

Participants are encouraged to share a photo or two on Instagram and tag @Gloucester_BID and @GraphicDesignGlosCol, including #TallShipsGlos24 for the chance to win a further fabulous prize.

Jess Colley, lecturer in graphic design at Gloucestershire College, said: "We have had so much fun working on this project, from start to finish. We've really enjoyed meeting the people who work in the shops - they've all been so lovely. And to top it off we have heard so many new pirate jokes!"

Karen Morris, vice principal curriculum and quality at Gloucestershire College, said: "Gloucestershire College has really appreciated the opportunity to work with Gloucester BID on the Tall Ships Project. The college is focused upon developing employability skills and these projects are an essential part of this.

"The learners were able to experience project management and further develop their communication and creative skills. We thank you for this wonderful opportunity."

Gloucester Tall Ships Festival takes place from Saturday, May 25, to Monday, May 27.