Firefighters are looking to the public for help as they try to become champions of a textile competition for the third year in a row - and raise money for charity.

Staff at Egremont Fire Station managed to collect a record-breaking 7.7 tonnes of clothing and textiles during January last year to help out the Fire Fighters Charity.

And in 2017, the station is hoping to smash its own record and amass over 10 tonnes of material.

Crew manager David McDowell said: "Last year we managed to collect 7.7 tonnes which raised £1700 for the Firefighters Charity and with your help in January 2017 we are going to attempt to break 10 tonnes. Thanks for your support."

The firefighters saw off the challenge from 603 fire stations across the UK in 2016, as £39,000 was raised for the charity.

It was the second year in a row the station had been victorious in the competition, after collecting 2.2 tonnes a year earlier.

Oundle Fire Station in Northamptonshire, collected 1.9 tonnes of clothing, and third place, Driffield Fire Station in Humberside, raised 1.4 tonnes.

Egremont firefighters also raised money for the charity with a winter wonderland over the festive period.

Crew members organised a fun day for children with a visit from Santa and an appearance from Welephant - the fire service mascot.

It raised over £1,000 and included fairground rides, a postbox for children to send their Christmas wishes and face painting.

And the crew, along with Santa and Welephant, delivered leftover selection boxes to children at the West Cumberland Hospital.

The Fire Fighters Charity is the UK's leading provider of services that enhance quality of life for serving and retired firefighters, fire personnel and their families.

It has a centre, called Jubilee House, at Eamont Bridge near Penrith. Textiles can be dropped off at Egremont Fire Station until January 31.