HUNDREDS packed into Winchester Cathedral this afternoon to pay tribute to Southampton fire fighters James Shears and Alan Bannon.

The pair tragically lost their lives on April 6 tackling a blaze at Shirley Towers.

Family and colleagues - who were joined by fire fighters from across Britain - paid emotional tributes to the duo.

John Bonney, chief officer of Hampshire Fire and Rescue, said: "The fire was a difficult and dangerous one, which required skill and valour to attack and defeat. Alan and James met that challenge without hesitation or question and, in doing so, paid the highest price.

"They made the ultimate sacrifice to protect others and we honour that today - we owe them a debt of respect and gratitude that can never be repaid."

The voice of Mark Wood, crew manager at St Mary's, quivered as he paid tribute to Mr Bannon.

He said: "People say that life goes on and time is a great healer, which is true, but that doesn't make it any easier.

"All we will do is try our best to deal with the images and consequences of that night, but trust me we will never forget our two boys from red watch St Mary's."