WOMEN who have always wanted to get behind the wheel of a truck, fire engine or police car are being given the chance in a charity drive to aid cancer research.

The trio of vehicles are among those which can be driven at RAF Linton-on-Ouse to help Marie Curie Cancer Care.

The charity is holding an all-day challenge on May 11 and 12 in a bid to raise cash to fund local services for cancer patients.

And Lady Crathorne, the wife of North Yorkshire's Lord Lieutenant Lord Crathorne, joined North Yorkshire Yorkshire County Council road safety officer Alison Butterfield to test out a fire appliance beforehand at Northallerton fire station.

Lady Crathorne, the charity's patron for North Yorkshire, said it was a wonderful feeling when she took part last year by driving a JCB.

Susie Fothergill, community fundraising manager, said "Linton is a fantastic venue, and easily reached from all over Yorkshire and Teesside.

"Ladies decide whether to take part on Saturday or Sunday for the experience of a lifetime in vehicles usually reserved for the men, but they will also be challenged in a driving skills test and vehicle maintenance checks!

"The aim of the day is to have a lot of fun, as well as providing a learning experience something truly unique!

"It will be a great day with some truly amazing vehicles and all participants will be helping in the fight against cancer."

Anyone interested will be asked to pay a £5 registration fee and raise sponsorship in aid of local Marie Curie Nurses.

For further details telephone 01904 621000.

Updated: 09:28 Tuesday, April 23, 2002