GREATER Manchester Fire Service's fund-raising efforts for the families of the New York firefighters who lost their lives in the September 11 terrorist attack have raised £250,000.

When the collections end on May 31, it is hoped the final figure will be nearer £275,000.

New York firefighters Joe Torrillo and Thomas Gogarty will be visiting Greater Manchester on May 27 for a week to collect the money and see the work of the Greater Manchester Fire Service.

County Fire Officer Barry Dixon said: "The response to the fund has been beyond our wildest expectations.

"People will never forget those terrible images on September 11 and no amount of money will replace the lost firefighters.

"But together with the public of Greater Manchester we have given something which may help the families affected to rebuild their lives."