FIREFIGHTERS swapped their usual hoses for buckets and sponges at a charity car wash on the weekend.

The crew from Droitwich Spa Fire Station got scrubbing to raise money for the Fire Fighter's Charity, which supports serving and retired firefighters, and for Ellie's Appeal.

Ellie Taylor is the ten-year-old daughter of firefighter Gareth Taylor, and the appeal aims to raise £10,000 so Ellie, who was born with Cerebral Palsy, can fund an operation to allow her to walk.

Watch Commander Chris Jelfs said: "Once we found out about Ellie's Appeal we decided to do as much as we could to help out. This was our first event and it was very well supported. We raised just over £850 which is a huge amount, and this will now be split between the two charities."

To donate to Ellie's Appeal, visit crowdfunding.justgiving.com/elliesappeal.