MUSLIMS in Worcester are hoping the terrorist attack in New York has laid the foundations for "greater peace and understanding" between cultures.

Members of the Muslim Welfare Association of Worcester have extended their grief and sympathy to all those who have suffered as a result of the tragedy.

"As a Muslim living in Britain, I wish to convey to my fellow citizens, that we of the Muslim faith condemn and abhor the terrorist activities which caused these atrocities," said Haji Mohammed Yousaf, president of the association.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with each and every one on this planet that has suffered since Tuesday morning.

"Not only in Worcester, but all over England, Muslims have been saying the same thing. We are part of a community here and we pledge as much assistance as we are able to give, in whatever way it may be of help.

"We hope that out of these dreadful events there may come an opportunity for greater peace and understanding between the many different cultures and religions of the world.

"We owe it to our children to strive for a world in which their children never have to witness the kind of events that took place on Tuesday last.

"The memory of that day will stay with us forever."

Meeting after prayers at the Jamia Ghousia Central Mosque on Worcester's Tallow Hill , some members expressed concerns about the recent racist attacks throughout the country.

A fire was started in an Alavia Mosque in Bolton, Greater Manchester, on Tuesday, September 18, which police are treating as suspicious.

And an Afghan taxi driver was paralysed from the neck down when he was beaten up in London this week.

However, Mr Yousef did not think these retaliatory racist attacks would be carried out in Worcester.

"I have lived here all my life and the people are generally good," he added.