Firefighters have raised more than £21,000 in a bucket collection for the families of fire colleagues lost in the US terrorist attacks.

West Sussex Fire Brigade set up an account for crews across Sussex and invited them to raise money.

Horsham fire station rose to the challenge and raised a staggering £21,733 in five days by walking round the town centre with collection buckets.

Firefighter Ed Coulson said: "It is more for the widows, the children and those that were injured, and the dependents of those who were lost.

"There is a common bond with firefighters across the world, regardless of what country, and we all face similar challenges and try to respond the best way we can."

Firefighter Coulson said everyone who helped had done so in their spare time, printing leaflets, dressing up and painting banners.

He said: "We had pensioners opening up their purses with only £25 inside and giving us £20. Individuals were giving us up to £200 at a go and children were giving their pocket money."

The money raised is being wired directly to the USA to support the bereaved and injured.

West Sussex Fire Brigade is continuing to raise money. Donations should be sent to Horsham fire station, Hurst Road, Horsham, West Sussex. Cheques should be made payable to WSFB New York Firefighters Relief Fund.