OPPOSITION among the people of York to Britain joining any US-led attack on Iraq is "very strong indeed", anti-war campaigners claimed today.

Bill Shaw, of York Against the War (YAW), said the depth of local opposition was shown by the fact that 3,000 people had signed a petition against any attack, and that three coachloads of people would be travelling from York to the Saturday's anti-war demonstration in London.

He was speaking today after the Government published its long-awaited dossier claiming Saddam Hussein's regime had military plans to use chemical and biological weapons.

Mr Shaw said: "The feeling is very much against war.

"The opposition to them usually builds up gradually. This time it is already there."

Another YAW supporter, Frank Ormston, said there was nothing in today's Government dossier on Iraq to change the group's view.

But the feeling on York's streets today was mixed, with some people opposed to the war, others in favour and some supporting an attack only if backed by the UN.

David Dowsett, 23, a PhD student at York University, said: "I am opposed to any attack without the UN's backing. With the UN's backing, I am in favour.

"Saddam Hussein is dangerous and has spent a long time giving the UN the complete runaround."

Visitor Pat Goddard, 62, of Oldham, said: "I think they should join America, they can't do it on their own, they need help."

Husband Ernie, 66, added: "It would be best to get backing from everyone though, and get the UN's support."

Louise Bedford, 26, of Kirkbymoorside, said: "We should not be involved. America seems to be out on its own and we shouldn't be with them."

Julia Mizon, 26, of Market Weighton, said: "Attacking Iraq is the wrong thing to do."

Jane Bowman, 84, of Regent Street, York, said: "I think there should be a peaceful solution. I am old enough to remember the last war and I would hate to see young lads being sent off to their deaths again."

A YAW meeting to discuss the Iraq crisis is planned for 7.30pm tonight at the Friends Meeting House, Friargate, York. For more details ring Frank Ormston on 07956 237 270.

Updated: 15:02 Tuesday, September 24, 2002