FIREFIGHTERS paused to reflect the sacrifices crew members have made over the years this morning, Monday.

Bolton firefighters took time out of their shift in a minute's silence at 11am in honour of International Firefighters Day.

It is a day when people recognise the work that firefighters past and present have carried out

Bolton North Fire Station crew manager Mark McCourt said two firefighters who worked there have died in the line of duty over the years.

In 1968, leading fireman Jack Liptrot died in the Brackley Pit Disaster, an attempted rescue of three girls at the disused mine, who also perished.

And in 2003, firefighter Graham Hughes died while attending a grass fire at Seven Acres Country Park.

Mr McCourt also said the occasion allows crew member to remember other colleagues who have passed away over the years.

A Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service spokesman added: "We want to say thank you to all our firefighters in Greater Manchester and colleagues across the country for their efforts, commitment and dedication now more than ever in these challenging times."