A CHARITY is giving women drivers the chance to get behind the wheel of trucks and fire engines.

Marie Curie Cancer Care will hold its annual Ladies' Driving Challenge at Albermarle Barracks, Heddon-on-the-Wall, Northumberland, on Saturday and Sunday, March 1 and 2, from 9.30am to 4pm.

The event will give women the chance to drive fire engines, police vehicles, HGVs and tipper trucks under expert supervision.

"There will be a collection of weird and wacky vehicles,'' said community fundraising co-ordinator Linda McDonough.

"It is a chance for us lasses to drive the sort of vehicles you lads say we can't.

"It is a brilliant day.

"Last year, the fire engine and the firemen seemed to be very popular, along with the HGVs. The poor firemen never stopped.''

The charity is hoping that about 100 teams of four will take part.

Entry costs £5 and each driver has to raise £75 in sponsorship.

For further details call Linda on 0191-382 3311 or the charity's regional events office on (01257) 450250.

All proceeds will go towards the charity's nursing services in the region.