Swashbuckling pirates and an inflatable parrot brought a different kind of theatre experience to an Oxford hospital.

Long John Silver took part in rehearsals for Treasure Island - despite being a patient in the cardiology department at the John Radcliffe Hospital, in Headington.

The hospital is helping the in- famous one-legged pirate with a parrot on his shoulder by allowing a seminar room to be transformed into a makeshift ship for a dress rehearsal.

The role of Long John Silver is being played by Bob Booth, manager of the Stagegraft company, which is putting on Treasure Island at the Old Fire Station in George Street over Christmas and New Year. Bob was admitted to the hospital after having problems with a recurring blood infection, following an operation to fit a heart pacemaker.

The 55-year-old, from Cowley Road, Oxford, said: "In the best traditions of the theatre, the show will go on.

"The specialist here knew there was a lot invested in this production and suggested we use a room here. It will mean we don't lose valuable preparation time."

Dr Colin Forfar, the consultant cardiologist in charge of Bob's treatment, said: "His heart problem is essentially a technical one. He is not ill and he is certainly well enough to keep up with the rehearsals.

"It will be unusual to see pirates in the hospital - it's not the sort of theatre we are used to."

Story date: Tuesday 02 November

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