Is Jack Sparrow based on a 16th Century Kent pirate?

Mr Ward fled to north Africa where he became a Barbary pirate.

“He attacked just about everything, regardless,” Mr Tonge said.

The pirate is believed to have eventually lived a life of luxury in Tunis.

Mr Tonge added: “He was extremely well-off. He did try to get a pardon from England, but he had such a disreputable reputation and life.

“Because he was still raiding when peace was declared with Spain, he was seen as a traitor to the country.”

But could Mr Ward really be the inspiration for Captain Jack Sparrow?

“He was one of the most famous pirates of his time. He seemed to be the ideal figure to emulate,” Mr Tonge said.

“He was surrounded by his riches and his parrot collection.”

Mr Tonge said that Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow was “more sophisticated and swarthier”.

“The description doesn’t fit with Jack Ward,” he added.

“But it’s Hollywood and it’s fantasy and superb entertainment.”