A FIREMAN'S lift will have a whole new meaning in Harwich if one man gets his wish.

Elliott Kemp, of Kings Head Street, Harwich, is hoping his decommissioned fire engine will be allowed to act as a private hire vehicle.

He has applied to Tendring Council for the licence, which will mean it can be hired for parties, hen nights, and other events - even taking a bride to the church.

Mr Kemp, 35, said: "I got it from a man in Coventry who had it as a limousine.

"I've done the inside out - there is a bar area and rope and disco lights.

"You can get eight people in the cabin - from the outside it just looks like a fire engine.

"I got it just before my little boy's birthday, so I did a party for him - he is a fan of the television programme Fireman Sam."

Mr Kemp will bring the fire engine to Monday's meeting, which is set to be held at the council offices in Thorpe Road, Weeley.