Captain Dudley (he wasn't one, but he likes to be called captain) has always had an interest in pirates. Some years ago, during his research, he found that he was related to a pirate named Esau Dudley, bastard son of the Earl of Dudley, charming womaniser, and captain of the Black Dog - a much-feared pirate ship during the golden age of piracy.

The then Earl of Dudley denied Esau was his son, leaving him to grow up in poverty and with a deep resentment towards the wealthy. This led Esau to join a pirate ship at a young age and the rest, as we say, is history.

Following his discovery, our Captain Dudley went on to set up The Black Dog Society to celebrate the life of his notorious ancestor. He enlisted the help of Mrs Darcie Jensen, businesswoman and veteran committee member of many non-profit organisations. Darcie and Captain Dudley ensured the society's constitution enabled them to remain in their positions for as long as they wished and potential members must pass an interview with Captain Dudley before their membership is agreed. The committee is currently made up of mostly women.

Captain Dudley is President of the Society and Darcie holds the Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary positions. She maintains that this is more efficient than having three people try to coordinate things.

Some of the Black Dog Society members you will meet are:

• Mrs Deborah Dudley - married to Captain Dudley and a very bored housewife.

• Miss Dolly Brown - Darcie's long-suffering PA and a bit of a flirt

• Mr Richard Stroker - bit of a mummy's boy and appeared on Mastermind - specialist subject, Captain Esau Dudley and the Black Dog.

• Ms Dawny Drew - divorcee, currently Captain & Mrs Dudleys housekeeper.

• Miss Angie Delaney - very enthusiastic society member and wants to be part of everything.

• Ms Rose Royce - knows everyone and helps with the organisation of the events.

• Inspector Bobby Bits - local detective and loves dressing up as a pirate.

Every year the society holds its anniversary dinner which doubles up as the annual member's meeting. Food and drink first with the meeting agenda squeezed in between that and the evening's entertainment.

This year looks set to be no different, until. . . . . .