FIREFIGHTERS got their hands dirty to raise thousands of pounds with a charity car wash.

Crew members launched the event at Clacton fire station to support SWAN UK and the Firefighters Charity.

As well as the car wash, visitors could enjoy a fun day event including face painting, bouncy castles and a host of games, including beat the goalie and hook the duck.

It was organised by Clacton firefighter Robbie Newman, whose young son Stanley suffers from a mystery illness.

Stanley Newman, who turns two years old in May, has developed an illness which affects his muscles.

It has left him weak and floppy, and means he cannot move around or keep himself upright, though his speech and brain function is normal.

His parents are still battling to get a proper diagnosis. Along the way they have been supported by SWAN UK, which stands for Syndromes Without a Name, and they have pledged to drum up awareness and raise cash for the charity.

The car wash event raised more than £2,000, half of which will go to the charity.

Dad Robbie has also raised about £1,000 for SWAN UK online, while a recent charity ball event raised £1,500.

His goal is to top the £5,000 mark, which would enable Stanley’s Heroes to be launched as an official charity.

People can support the cause online at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/TeamStanleyNewman