THE Mayor of Harrogate has written to the American commander at the Menwith Hill spy base to reassure her that Yorkshire people "share your sorrow and outrage at the atrocities" in the USA.

Coun Bob Nash told Colonel Christine Marsh that it was difficult to find the words to express the feelings of people in the district, where many Americans had come to live and work.

"We watched with horror and disbelief as the news unfolded and can only barely begin to understand what things must be like for those back home in America and, of course, for you and your colleagues who are so far from your homes and loved ones.

"It is a terrible feeling to have nothing more than words to offer but, as you know, Yorkshire has a reputation for its warmth and generosity, and we hope that you will take some small comfort to hear that its people have you in their hearts, thoughts and prayers."

Flags have been flown at half- mast on council buildings and at Harrogate Conference Centre, and books of condolence are being circulated in Boroughbridge, Knaresborough, Ripon, Pateley Bridge and Masham, as well as Harrogate.

Updated: 11:43 Thursday, September 13, 2001