WINCHESTER firefighters swapped battling flames and rescuing people for tackling dirt and grime.

The station in Easton Lane in Winnall held a charity car wash to raise funds for the Firefighters Charity.

About 45 were cleaned, said Firefighter Tim James: "I guess many of them like the 'personal' touch rather than 'cleaning by machine' though I think most just like to drive through our impressive fire station. Either way we're happy to raise money for our charity."

The Firefighters Charity assists serving and retired Firefighters and their families in times of need.

They are able to give specialist treatment to a wide range of injuries allowing a quicker return to full health and work. The charity also runs three rehabilitation centres where members are able to spend time recuperating.

A total of £460 was raised.