WITHIN the space of a week, Leigh firefighters have raised thousands of pounds to help their New York brethren and their families who have been affected by the recent terrorist atrocities.

The people of Leigh came forward in droves to hand over money to firefighters collecting money in local public places -- and more than £6,000 has been raised.

Assistant divisional officer Gary Bailey, of Leigh Fire Station, praised the public's generosity.

He said: "We raised the money purely and simply by turning up. There is a great deal of sympathy towards the New York firefighters. We didn't have to work hard."

All Leigh firefighters have spent time collecting funds.

Across Greater Manchester, firefighters have been doing similar fund-raising activities.

Mr Bailey said: "Hopefully we will never lose so many firefighters again in one event. It just beggars belief how many were lost. I am afraid the same thing could have occurred in this country."

He added: "I would like to praise local people for their generosity and for their support for the fire service in general. We really do appreciate the support they have given us."

Atherton firefighters have raised £730 for the families and dependents of their New York colleagues.