EMERGENCY service chiefs, churches and politicians serving Herefordshire have joined in expressing horror at the rising death toll and casualties of the world's worst-ever act of terrorism in New York and Washington.

Shock waves from the disaster continue as the magnitude of the tragedy becomes clearer by the day.

One Herefordshire journalist, The Guardian's Washington correspondent, Matthew Engel, is at the centre of the unfolding story. His first despatch in the wake of the collapse of the World Trade Centre and the wreckage of the Pentagon told of a nation, once sure of its safety from the reach of terrorism, that will now never be the same again.

Chief Fire Officer for Hereford and Worcester, David O'Dwyer said: "We have all seen with increasing horror the events in New York and Washington. The enormity of the situation is difficult to comprehend and the loss of life is hard to imagine."

He made special mention of the 300 fire fighters who lost their lives trying to rescue people from the burning twin towers of the World Trade Centre before they collapsed.

He said he will be sending a message of condolence to the chief fire officer of New York and the Mayor of New York.

Chief Constable of West Mercia Constabulary, Peter Hampson has sent messages of condolence and support to colleagues in the Port of New York and New Jersey Police.

He said: "I am sure that all our thoughts are with the families of those who have died or been seriously injured and with those who are now seeking to rescue and recover the injured and dead."

Acting Chief Executive of Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Service, Mrs Linda Millinchamp said: "We are particularly distressed at the loss of so many emergency personnel who were helping the victims and who continued to try to save other people's lives when they must have appreciated their own vulnerability. Clearly our thoughts are with their families and friends at this time and with all those who suffered such terrible loss and injury."

Flags at half mast

Hereford's MP, Paul Keetch said: "I am shocked and appalled at the attacks carried out, I of course feel deeply for the families of the innocent victims of these horrendous events. I hope that those responsible are quickly brought to justice.

"All terrorists, of whatever origin, share in the guilt of those who perpetrated these terrible acts."

Herefordshire Council has responded to the outrage by placing books of condolence in its buildings across the county. Flags will be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect.

Leader of the council Terry James, who has a relative working at the Pentagon in Washington, said the events of September 11 had had an impact on families in Herefordshire.

Councillors observed a minute's silence in respect of the dead at yesterday' (Wednesday) central area planning meeting at Brockington.

Hereford Police received calls on Tuesday afternoon from people concerned for the safety of friends and relatives in New York and Washington.

West Mercia police have urged people not to contact emergency services in relation to the disaster, but to use the national helpline: 02070080000.

Churches around the county opened their doors for people wishing to pray for the dead and injured.

Hereford Cathedral held prayers every hour on the hour, and St Martins in Hereford held a special service.

Herefordshire Council has placed books of condolence in the following buildings in Hereford: The Town Hall; Brockington; Social Services offices, Bath Street; Education Centre, Blackfriars Street and Garrick House.

The public can also find books at the information offices at Swan House in Ross-on-Wye and Corn Square in Leominster and at the local area offices in Ledbury, Bromyard and Kington.