PEOPLE across Wyre Forest gathered to pay their respects to the victims of the terrorist attacks on America in a series of church services.

Prayers were offered and candles lit as folk quietly reflected on the tragic loss of thousands of people at New York's World Trade Centre and the Pentagon in Washington. Derek Winter pays his respects at St Mary's Church in Kidderminster in the wake of the American terrorist strikes.

Several churches including Kidderminster's St Mary's and St George's opened especially, and the Kidderminster House of Prayer arranged for St John's School to open.

Wyre Forest District Council chairman Frank Baillie and leader Mike Oborski issued a joint statement about the tragedy.

They said: "On behalf of all Wyre Forest citizens we extend our sympathy to the families, friends and colleagues of those who tragically lost their lives or suffered injury."

The council has been flying its flag at Stourport Civic Centre at half mast and councillors were due to observe a minute's silence before last night's meeting.

Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade chief fire officer David O'Dwyer will attend a memorial service in New York's Central Park on Sunday in memory of the 300 firefighters who died in the rescue bid at the trade centre.