BOOKS of condolence for the families of dead schoolgirls Jessica Chapman and Holly Wells have been opened across the county.

Organisations, including Droitwich Town Council, have responded to the tragedy in Cambridgeshire, which has touched the hearts of the nation.

The book was due to be opened today so that people from the town can pass on their messages to the families of the two Soham 10-year-olds, whose bodies were found on Sunday.

The Mayor of Droitwich, Terry Spencer, said he had taken the step because many people had been affected by the killings.

He said it had hit him especially hard as his own daughter was nearly nine.

"We were having a charity event at my home when the news came through, so Father Doug Chaplin said some prayers," he said.

"The service was very moving, so we decided we really should do something and the only thing we could think of was just offer our support and pass the wishes of Droitwich people on to those in Soham.

"I'm sure a lot of people will sign the book because it has touched so many and it's a very sad occasion."

The book is being set up in the Heritage Centre, in Victoria Square, from 12.30pm today, and will probably be in place for around a month before it is sent to Soham.

Opening times for the centre, based in St Richards' House, are from 10am to 4pm.

At Worcester Cathedral, a Book of Condolence has been placed by the prayer candle stand in the South Quire aisle, outside the John Chapel.

People can sign with their comments or prayers for the two dead girls and their families.

"We always need to affirm goodness in the face of wickedness," said the Dean of Worcester, the Very Reverend Peter Marshall.

"Our condolences show the good of the love which comforts those who are immediately caught in this horror that affects us all. "With our words and prayers, God will help us 'overcome evil with good'."