A BOOK of condolence has been opened in the Guildhall for people to sign after today's three-minute silence at 11am for those involved in the New York tragedy.

The people of Worcester and visitors to the city will be able to sign the book, which will be kept in the Guildhall before it is sent to Washington DC.

Another book of condolence was opened in the Cathedral on Wednesday, September 12, and so far carries around 300 signatures.

A graduation ceremony for Worcester College of Technology was delayed today to mark the silence.

Firefighters from Worcester fire station are collecting money for the families and dependants of their counterparts lost in the tragedy.

They have already raised £2,285 with collections in Chapel Walk in the CrownGate shopping centre.

A spokesman for the fire service said firefighters were overwhelmed by the public response.

"They want to say a big thank you to all those who made a donation," he said.

"They will be out collecting again today and on Saturday, apart from when they return to the station to mark the three minute silence."

Bromsgrove District Council leader Nick Psirides called on residents to join councillors and staff outside The Council House in Burcot Lane for the silence.

"Please join us, either at the Council House, or in thought wherever you will be at the time, and uphold the silence to remember the dead an injured and their families, not only in America, but all over the world," said Coun Psirides.

He has also written to Rudolph Guiliani, the Mayor of New York saying the thoughts and prayers of the people of Bromsgrove are with the citizens of New York.

"Like the rest of the world, the citizens of Bromsgrove District in Worcestershire, England, were deeply shocked, saddened and angered by recent events," he wrote.

Wyre Forest District Council flew its flag at half-mast and will be holding another one minute silence at the start of the full council meeting on Wednesday, September 19.

Six books of condolence and a message by the chairman of the council, Coun Frank Baillie and leader of the council, Coun Mike Oborski, will be sent to the American Embassy.

Camelot was due to suppress lottery machines throughout the country during the three minutes' silence.