FIREFIGHTERS and control staff in North Wales took part in a minutes silence today.

The silence at midday marked Firefighters’ Memorial Day, paying tribute to firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty and acknowledging the courage and dedication of generations of firefighters, including those who serve today.

Firefighters' Memorial Day, organised by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) and the Firefighters Memorial Trust, will also pay tribute to the nine firefighters in the United States and four in Italy who have died as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Firefighters and control staff throughout the UK stood outside their workplaces and sound their sirens at noon. Wreaths were laid at the National Firefighters' Memorial at St Pauls in London.

The Leader:

Sub Officer Dan O'Brien pays his respects at the National Firefighters' Memorial at St Pauls, London, in memory of the firefighters that lost their lives in the line of duty. Photo: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, said: "Firefighters come into work each day to save the lives of others but, tragically, it is their own lives that can be lost in the process.

"We remember them this day to pay tribute, but there must also be lessons learnt from each fallen firefighter. All too often their deaths could and should have been prevented.

"While many remain in their homes as we battle coronavirus, firefighters continue to show up to work each day, keeping their communities safe.

"This year, we have lost three of our comrades whilst on duty in the UK and countless others internationally, and we have watched in pain as firefighters in Italy and the United States have lost their lives to Covid-19.

"It is the sombre reality of our profession that, each day, the families of firefighters can never know for certain that their loved ones will come home that night. Today, we remember their bravery and sacrifice. In their honour, we hold this minute's silence."

Pictured are firefighters at Deeside and Wrexham stations.