Two guide dogs who saved their owners' lives just before the World Trade Center collapsed have been honoured for their bravery.

Yellow labradors Roselle and Salty led Michael Hingson and Omar Rivera to safety by picking their way through the buildings and the debris-filled streets.

The heroic dogs had to carefully guide the pair down the crowded, smoke-filled stairs of the Trade Center when it was hit by planes in the 11 September terrorist attacks.

Heroes

Mr Rivera and Salty managed to make their way down from the 71st floor.

Mr Hingson and Roselle also led another woman, who had been blinded by debris in her eyes, to safety.

The British Guide Dogs for the Blind Association decided their bravery couldn't go unnoticed and gave them a trophy each.

A spokeswoman said: "Both dogs handled themselves with tremendous courage and devotion. We are extremely proud of them."