HEN night revellers in York can now have their very own fireman for the night - complete with fire engine.

Firefighter Steve Higgins has set up a business ferrying around groups of girls celebrating their last night of freedom.

Steve, from Bridlington, said he came up with the idea two years ago and bought a fire engine from an auction.

He transformed the inside of the vehicle to hold up to eight girls, and changed the colour of the lights.

He said: "The girls are really good usually. When we first pick them up they are a bit timid.

"The hen gets a fireman's lift on to the engine and we give them all champagne and games to play.

"They are really great and always get into the spirit of it.

"There are so many hen nights in York that no one bats an eyelid, but this really makes the hen feel special."

Steve, who is a firefighter in Bridlington, set up the business with his wife, Sharon, and friend, Richard Coning.

He has had to work with the fire service and police, as there is potential for the public to mistake the vehicle for a real fire engine.

Sharon also organises children's parties, where youngsters get a cake and the chance to ride around in the vehicle.

For more information visit www.firemansliftsyork.co.uk or phone 01904 690793.

Updated: 10:56 Wednesday, May 19, 2004