FIREfighters' efforts to raise money for victims of the US tragedies reached new heights on Saturday.

As part of a national brigade appeal, members of Cleveland Fire Brigade were at the Cleveland Centre, Middlesbrough, Stockton's Castle Centre and the Middleton Grange Centre, Hartlepool, raising funds.

Their aim was to climb the height of Mount Everest by going up and down ladders, as shoppers gave donations.

Assistant Divisional Officer Alan Gill said: "There were 30 or 40 officers in full kit, trying to get sponsorship by people putting money into helmets and boots, which is a tradition in America."

* SHOPPERS showed their sympathy for victims of the terrorist attacks by signing a book of condolence on Saturday.

After hundreds of people signed Middlesbrough Borough Council's book at the Town Hall, it was taken to the Cleveland Centre to allow shoppers to sign.

The Mayor of Middlesbrough, Councillor Pat Walker, said: "Many people have been coming to the Town Hall over the last two weeks to pay their respects, and I hope that more people will sign the book as a mark of sympathy and solidarity with the American people.

"It is very important that as individuals, and as a town, we show where we stand on this."