FIREFIGHTERS are appealing for people to donate old cars – so they can destroy them.

The 999 crews across the Hambleton district are in need of scrap cars to practice their lifesaving rescue techniques.

Group Manager David Pitt said: "We spend a great deal of time working with our partners to reduce the number of collisions across Hambleton, with initiatives to educate motorists about safer driving.

“However, collisions still occur where motorists may be trapped in their vehicles and are in need of rescue.

“Fire crews need to continually practice rescue techniques on a variety of vehicles. This practice is vital to maintain firefighters’ skills."

Firelighters at Northallerton, Thirsk, Bedale, Stokesley and Easingwold are asking any motorist planning to scrap their vehicle to contact them.

Vehicles can be collected, and will be disposed of at an authorised scrap dealer.

Contact Northallereton fire station on 01609-751010.