GIVE us your old cars - that is the plea from Basildon firefighters.

The fire station, in Great Oaks, has recently taken delivery of new Holmatro cutting equipment and officers want to try it out.

Leading firefighter Pauline Holden said: "The new equipment is easier to manoeuvre and set up.

"Obviously, when you're getting someone out of a trapped car, speed is vital."

She said the fire station was appealing for people to hand over their old cars for the team to practise using the new equipment on.

She added: "We are hoping people who have old cars they want to get rid of will contact us, as we will be able to make good use of them."

Anyone with an old car they can donate should contact Basildon fire station on 01268 521633.

There will also an open day at the fire station on May 26 between 10am and 4pm, when there will be demonstrations with the new equipment.