SINCE the horrific attacks on America two weeks ago, terrified New Yorkers have been panic-buying gas masks ready for what they believe may be the next step in the terrorist's deadly plan -- biological warfare.

The Citizen took to the streets of Preston this week and found people had mixed opinions on the threat of terrorism.

Dot Bradley, a shop owner from Longton, said: "To be honest I wouldn't buy a gas mask. We all just have to get on with our lives. I'm not even thinking about gas masks at the moment, and I don't think anyone else should.

"It's like when we had the scare about eggs and salmonella. Life's too short to worry. Of course it is a serious issue, though, but I think we shouldn't worry."

However student Lorna Tomb, 22, from Preston, admitted she was concerned and believes people should be kept informed. "I wouldn't know where to get a gas mask from at all," Lorna said. "I don't know anyone who would. This whole situation is very worrying, and I would like to be able to do something about it if something does happen. So maybe we should be told what to do. Nobody has said anything, or told us the best thing to do."

Paul Ashcroft, 31, an army chef from Preston, says he is prepared for the worst. He said: "I could get a gas mask through the army. I've already got a Nuclear Biological and Chemical warfare suit so I'll be okay. But they won't risk using biological weapons. Too many people would be hurt."

He added: "The Americans always get scared when this kind of thing happens. And everyone over here buying all this food to keep in, it's panic buying. People are stocking up just like they did with the fuel crisis. But there is nothing to worry about really."

Samima Maje, 21, a student from Preston, also believes people should not panic buy. She said: "I think all this panicking is pathetic.

"I wouldn't know where to get a gas mask, I guess you'd just 'phone the police if you were worried. They'd get loads of calls if something actually happened."

Kelly Irvine, 31, with five-week-old baby Olivia, from Walton-le-Dale, said: "As a mother of a little baby I am not too worried. I just haven't thought that far ahead. I think the Government will get it all sorted before it is too late. I am surprised they haven't issued a statement, though.

"It does concern me, but perhaps they aren't all that worried after all. But you never know what people are capable of, though, do you?"