The Bishop of London has joined guests at the Firefighters International Service of Remembrance at St Sepulchre-without-Newgate to honour the contribution of firefighters around the globe. Following the service, the Bishop and other attendees processed to the National Firefighters Memorial to lay wreaths, led by vintage fire appliances and musicians from UK Fire Service Bands.

The annual service – which this year fell on the 15^th anniversary of 9/11 – is organised by The Firefighters Memorial Trust, which exists to recognise the commitment and dedication of all United Kingdom Firefighters and those serving in designated British Overseas Territories, particularly those who have died as a result of their duties serving the community. The service and wreath laying was attended by guests including Fire Chiefs, Government representatives, the President of the US Metropolitan Fire Chiefs, a representative of the Canadian High Commission, families of fallen firefighters and firefighters from around the UK.

General Secretary of The Firefighters Memorial Trust, Paul Settle MBE, commented:

“This was a truly memorable occasion. The weather was kind to us and the visitors to the City of London were very appreciative of this colourful parade and ceremony which also commemorated the 15^th anniversary of the Twin Towers 9/11 horror that claimed so many lives including 93 New York firefighters.”

You can find out more about the work of The Firefighters Memorial Trust at this link:

http://www.firefightersmemorial.org.uk/