Firefighters will ditch their hoses for footballs to raise money for those dedicating their lives to saving lives.

The everyday heroes will compete against each other at a charity match in Uckfield next month for the Firefighters Charity.

On-call firefighter Sian Heather, from Pevensey, is organising the event after she set up a women's team in the service last year which competed in an emergency services league.

"The atmosphere was filled with energy, enthusiasm and a strong sense of camaraderie," she said.

"It was amazing to see people who had never played football before stepping onto the pitch, eager to get involved and contribute to the team."

Now Sian and the team have decided to raise funds for the Firefighters Charity, which supports both serving and retired members of the service with physical and emotional care.

She added: "Many of my colleagues have accessed this vital service, and it has made a real difference in their lives.

By hosting this match, we aim to give back to a cause that has supported so many of us."

Some 26 personnel, men and women, will take to Uckfield Town's ground for the game on October 1.

Tickets will be sold for a voluntary donation at the 1,000 capacity pitch. The bar opens at 6.30pm for a 7.30pm kick off.