Firefighters and staff across Tyne and Wear have held a minute’s silence to remember those killed in the line of duty – both at home and overseas.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) joined colleagues around the country today (Wednesday) as part of National Firefighters’ Memorial Day.

The day is held to commemorate the 2,542 fire and rescue staff who have lost their lives serving the public across the nation.

But they also marked International Firefighters’ Day and used the minute’s silence to remember the 33 Ukrainian firefighters who have lost their lives this year.

It followed a year that has seen TWFRS, and other Fire and Rescue Services across the country, donate vehicles, equipment and kit to their Ukrainian colleagues.

Chief Fire Officer Chris Lowther, of TWFRS, said: “Working as part of our fire and rescue services fills me with a tremendous sense of pride.

“Firefighter’s Memorial Day is a fitting way for us to remember those colleagues who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Not just in our region but across the world.

“We will always be indebted to their heroism; and the families, friends and loved ones who they have left behind will always be in our thoughts.”

The minute’s silence was held at the TWFRS Service Headquarters in Washington and at 16 other stations across Tyne and Wear.

May 4th is also International Firefighters’ Day and in some countries is celebrated as St Florian’s Day, with the intention of commemorating the dedication, commitment and sacrifices of firefighters everywhere.

The commemorative day is organised by the Firefighters Memorial Trust, and supported by the Fire Brigades Union and the National Fire Chiefs Council.