THE Fylde fell silent yesterday (Wednesday) as the area remembered the chilling events on September 11 twelve months ago.

Work came to a halt and shops stopped trading in silent tribute to those who perished in the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centre and the Pentagon.

Typical of the silence being observed was Fleetwood Freeport where shopkeepers throughout the complex reminded customers at 1.46pm the time of the first attack on the twin towers.

At the other end of the coast, activity at Blackpool Airport was halted although no flights were delayed. And at Blackpool North rail station the shops closed and travellers stopped to show their respect.

About 300 people gathered outside Blackpool Town Hall, Talbot Square. to observe the silence. The building's flag flew at half mast, and ranks of local firefighters stood at the steps as dignitaries including Blackpool's Mayor Councillor Ivan Taylor led the meeting.

Coun Taylor paid tribute to those caught up in the tragedy, including New York's firemen, adding: "Let us hope and pray that what happened in New York that dreadful day is never repeated."

At Fylde Borough, staff stopped work for a silent tribute as the town hall flag was lowered to half mast.

Mayor of Wyre Coun Geoff Horrocks led the tribute outside the main entrance to the Civic Centre in Poulton and there were books of condolence in the foyer, for people to sign.