A firefighter from Bridgwater was among a local group who travelled to the United States to take part in a gruelling memorial climb honouring firefighters killed during the September 11 terrorist attacks.
Daisy Goldsmith, who is based at Bridgwater Fire Station and lives in Puriton, joined seven colleagues from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service as part of a UK contingent of 236 firefighters who flew to Atlanta, Georgia, for the event.
Together, they climbed 110 floors, equivalent to 2,226 steps, while wearing full firefighting kit. The gruelling climb was in tribute to the 343 firefighters who lost their lives responding to the attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York on September 11, 2001.
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The challenge took place inside Atlanta's baseball stadium and brought together around 1,200 participants, including firefighters from across the United States, military personnel and civilians.
Participants faced tough conditions, with temperatures reaching 35C and humidity levels of around 85 per cent.
Describing the experience, Daisy said it was an "emotional, intense and humbling experience".
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: "It was tough, hot and emotional but every step was taken in memory of the 343 firefighters who lost their lives serving their community.
"We’re incredibly proud of you all. What an achievement and a fitting way to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice."
The climb raised money for Fire Fighters Charity and the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund.
Each firefighter taking part was given the name and photograph of one of the 343 firefighters who died on September 11, helping ensure those lost were remembered throughout the climb.
Daisy said: "We firefighters were given the name and picture of a firefighter that died, to reflect and remember them as we took on the climb.
"In what was tragic circumstances, a community has been built, we will never forget."
This year marks 25 years since the September 11 attacks, when terrorists hijacked four passenger aircraft in the United States. Nearly 3,000 people were killed after two planes struck New York's World Trade Centre.
The memorial climb is designed to mirror the 110 floors firefighters climbed while responding to the attacks on the Twin Towers in New York.
For Daisy and her colleagues, the trip was a chance to pay tribute to those who lost their lives while carrying out their duties and to stand alongside firefighters from across the UK and the United States.
Despite the challenging conditions, Daisy said the event was a memorable experience and an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by fellow firefighters 25 years ago, while helping keep their stories and legacy alive.
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