FIREFIGHTERS have raised more than £1,250 for the Australian Bushfire Fund and the Fire Fighters Charity.

Pickering fire station organised a sponsored car wash, which saw businesses, residents and on-call firefighters donating towards the cause.

“This car wash surpassed all previous events we have done by raising over double the usual amount - we were all overwhelmed,” said Stuart Moss, watch manager at Pickering fire station.

“At the busiest part of the day, we were washing four cars simultaneously and had a queue of 10 cars waiting.”

Garry Russell, from Russell’s Cafe in Pickering, offered free bacon sandwiches and hot drinks to everyone involved.

“I would like to thank everyone that came to have their vehicles washed for their generosity and patience,” said Stuart.

“Numerous people even walked to the station to donate who didn’t have a car, but just wanted to contribute towards the fundraiser.”