WHAT do you expect to get from a raffle - a bottle of plonk, a cuddly toy maybe, at the very best a holiday or even a car?

But a fireman .... ?

Well, that's what is on offer in the latest charity fundraising exercise to hit York.

At least half a dozen firefighters have offered their services for the day - all to help out a colleague who is embarking on a sponsored trek to the roof of the world.

Allison Pollard is swapping her firefighting uniform for walking gear, to climb 19,341 feet to the summit of Kilimanjaro next month.

But time is running out for her to raise at least £2,700 for the two-week trek in aid of Cancer Research UK, and she hopes the raffle will be a money-spinning success.

"There are six firefighters, possibly more, from York fire station taking part," she said. "I am really pleased they have pulled out all the stops to help me.

"I don't just want to raise my £2,700. I want to get as much over the target as possible for Cancer Research."

Only women will be able to secure a male firefighter for the day.

Allison is volunteering her services "as the booby prize" for any men who win.

The 32-year-old, who is one of three women at York fire station, said people looking to "win" a fireman must live within York - and try not to take advantage.

"Gardening, washing the car and general chores ... anything within reason!" said Allison.

"I am sure there will be someone who tries to take advantage by asking them to re-plumb a washing machine or fit a bathroom."

Other goodies up for grabs include a DVD player, a hamper, a physiotherapy massage and a meal for two.

The raffle will be drawn in mid-September. Tickets cost £1 and are available from York fire station, Nexus, the Living Well, or from Allison.

Two giant car washes are also being staged to help put pounds in Allison's collection box.

Allison, who has been a York fire-fighter for 11 years, is also appealing for support to provide public liability cover for the two days, when a pair of fire engines from a training school will be on hand.

Owners of mucky vehicles should head for Clifton Moor Centre on Saturday, August 27, and Acomb fire station the following day.

"We will be using a high-pressure hose reel and lots of elbow grease. People just make a donation on the day to Cancer Research," said Allison.

For a raffle ticket or to sponsor Allison, phone 01904 616100.

Updated: 10:45 Wednesday, August 17, 2005