DROITWICH Spa's community leaders have condemned the terrorist attacks in the USA.

Wychavon District Council chairman Cllr Tony Hotham (Con, Hanbury) said: "I believe, along with all right-thinking people, that these acts of terrorism are totally abhorrent.

"We in Wychavon have deepest sympathy for all those directly affected by this tragedy and the USA as a whole.

"We have expressed these views to the American Embassy."

Worcestershire County Council's flag has been lowered to half mast.

The authority's chairman, Cllr Peter Fallows (Con, Hagley and Furlongs), said: "We express our deepest sympathies to the families of the casualties.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with them and with friends and relatives of people from the county."

Special services have been held at town churches, many of which have been open longer hours so residents could light candles, sign condolence books and say private prayers.

The Bishop of Worcester, Dr Peter Selby, said: "I share the horror and perplexity of all people.

"I ask all Christians to join in prayer for those whose lives have been torn apart by what has happened.

"I hope people will not leap to conclusions before we know the answers to many questions."

West Mercia Constabulary, which polices Droitwich Spa, has sent messages of condolence and support to their colleagues overseas.