FYLINGDALES' role in the Star Wars missile defence shield in the light of last week's tragic events in America is to be discussed at a public meeting in Whitby tonight.

Earlier this year, the Evening Press issued a strong message to President Bush rejecting his wishes to include the North Yorkshire bases in his missile defence shield project.

Fears remain that the project could make North Yorkshire a prime target for any "rogue state" attacking the west.

Speakers at the Whitby meeting will be Lindis Percy, a prominent member of the Campaign for Accessibility of American Airbases, and Anni Rainbow, a peace campaigner who regularly protests outside Menwith Hill.

Although the meeting was arranged some time ago, organisers expect many more people will attend to discuss the issues in the light of the recent terror attacks in America, and no formal agenda has been set.

Tricia Griffin, a member of the Fylingdales Action Network, said: "I hope the meeting will provide an environment where people can discuss their feelings about the current state of affairs.

"And their personal feelings of grief and loss while at the same time remembering a need for a rational and appropriate level of response to what's happening in the world."

Mrs Griffin said Fylingdales Action Network was concerned that decisions will be made hastily in the aftermath of the horrific events of last week.

"While wishing to support the American people at this time of grief we do not support the American government pursuing a policy of revenge and retaliation that will involve the deaths of more innocent people.

"We are concerned that indiscriminate bombing will further destabilise peace in the world.

"We call on Tony Blair and the British government to co-operate with other European governments to find peaceful means of resolving this conflict," she said.

The meeting will be held at 8pm in the Seaman's Mission, Haggersgate, Whitby.

Updated: 15:37 Wednesday, September 19, 2001