A SILENT tribute has been paid by firefighters in the borough in honour of the September 11 victims.

At 1.46pm yesterday (Thursday) crews formed up outside their stations to commemorate the loss of 343 New York firemen, and thousands of others who were killed in the attack on the World Trade Centre towers two years ago.

As a further mark of respect, brigade flags were flown at half-mast at all stations across Greater Manchester from 8am until sunset. Union flags were also lowered at the police and ambulance stations and at Bury Town Hall.

Since the atrocity, the county fire service has received more than 50 letters of thanks from families of the New York fire fighters after it raised nearly £300,000 to help the bereaved.

County fire officer, Barry Dixon, said: "Many people gave a lot of time and effort to contribute to this fund and these letters of thanks show that their contributions are truly appreciated.

"Some of the letters are particularly heart-warming and I hope that people will take the opportunity to come and read them. Although the brigade is the point of contact for the families, the letters are intended for the public of Greater Manchester in general."

The letters and pictures are available for viewing for the next two weeks in the foyer of the fire service headquarters in Bolton Road, Swinton, or at www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/911_letters