Drivers across South Yorkshire will get the chance to have their car washed by local firefighters this weekend and raise cash for charity in the process.

This Saturday (8 March 2008), firefighters from South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue will take part in National Car Wash Day, washing cars in aid of the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund.

The annual event aims to raise money for the fund, which supports injured firefighters and their families.  The charity is close to the hearts of many South Yorkshire firefighters, particularly following the injury of two colleagues in a fire last month.  Both firefighters suffered serious burns in the blaze and one still remains in hospital.

Most fire stations across South Yorkshire are taking part in the fundraising event and firefighters will also offer car wash ‘customers’ important advice on how to keep their homes and families safe from fire.  Many stations are also providing free drinks and other incentives to encourage members of the public to call in.

Firefighters at Edlington Station in Doncaster are amongst those taking part.  Station Manager Stewart Layhe said: “Our firefighters will be washing cars all day but we’ll also be on hand to offer road safety and fire safety advice, and people can make appointments for us to visit their homes and fit free smoke alarms.  We’ll also have a magician at the station to keep the kids entertained!”

At Central Station in Sheffield, firefighter Lee Jones is helping to organise events, which start at 10am.  He said: “This is a great opportunity for us to provide a service to the local community, have some fun and raise money for a very worth cause.”

All events across the county will run from mid-morning until mid-afternoon.

For more information, or to speak to a firefighter in your area, please contact Corporate Communications on 0114 253 2353.