A RAFFLE is being held at Pioneer Health Studios in Bacup to raise money for a retained firefighter who has been diagnosed with leukaemia.

Chris Sparks, from Bacup Fire Station, has adult leukaemia. He works with Gavin Smith, the brother of the owner of the health studio Nigel.

Nigel said: "We have many prizes including six months membership of the gym, two VIP tickets to a Rochdale game, two tickets to Burnley v Sheffield Wednesday on January 19 and a guided tour of Manchester United.

"Other prizes include micro scooters and tickets for the raffle are being sold at the health studio, Bacup News and the Little Queen in Bacup."

The fire station is also planning an auction night with a raffle and an artiste in January.

Meanwhile, Blackburn fire brigade is trying to trace one of its pensioners -- to deliver his Christmas present.

Tony Walmsley, of the local station's Firemen's Benevolent Fund, said they had lost track of Mr D -- believed to be Donald -- Entwistle, who would be in his late 80s. "He used to live at 80 St James's Road, Blackburn, " said Mr Walmsley. "We're hoping he's just gone into a residential home." Anyone who can help should contact the station on 01254 52111.