A CHARITY car wash saw firefighters clean 200 vehicles to raise £500 for two causes.

The marathon four-hour fund-raiser at Kidderminster Fire Station last month was in aid of the National Fire Service Benevolent Fund and repairs to the Kidderminster base of the Salvation Army, Jerusalem Walk.

Leading firefighter Dave Pearsall said the benevolent fund - which helps injured staff - has been neglected following the September 11 terrorist attacks in America, with so much cash going to New York firefighters.

He added the Salvation Army "offer support and assistance" to firefighters during major incidents and said a Shuttle/Times and News article on the £80,000 cost of renovating its town centre had inspired the station to help out.

The Castle Road station hosts an open day on Saturday from noon until 4pm.

Firefighters will be on hand to show people around and provide safety advice.