FIREFIGHTERS in Clacton are taking a day off from battling blazes to launch an open day fundraiser.

The Clacton crews will welcome visitors to the St John’s Road station for a day of fun.

Visitors will be able to meet their local fire crews, get a close-up look at the firefighting gear and engines, as well as meeting the search and rescue dogs.

There will also be live music, attractions, stalls and hot food.

The annual event was organised by crews to support four-year-old Stanley Newman, son of their colleague and fellow firefighter Rob.

Stanley has a rare muscle-wasting condition called congenital muscular dystrophy.

Cash raised at the station open day will go to Muscular Dystrophy UK to help boost the chances of finding a cure or treatment to prolong Stanley’s life.

Dad Rob said: “We are touched by the continued support from the wider community.

“Stanley’s JustGiving page has recently topped the £10,000 mark but I know recent activities put the total over £15,000, which is just incredible.”

The fundraiser will take place on June 25, 11am-4pm.

People can follow the family’s fundraising progress at justgiving.com/Stanleys-Heroes