GRIEF-STRICKEN East Lancashire people have been attending Blackburn Cathedral to pay their respects to the dead.

Church leaders allowed tearful locals to light candles, say prayers or just sit in quiet contemplation at the cathedral.

Canon Andrew Hindley said: "We have had far more people than we expected, all of whom have been upset, many visibily so.

"Many have no relatives or connections with America. They just cannot understand how something so evil could happen. Everyone has their moments at times like this, I do.

"But such wickedness is not the Christian way."

The Bishop of Blackburn was due to return to the diocese from a short break today.

The Bishop of Burnley, the Right Rev John Goddard, said: "My first reaction was total shock at something that appeared to be unbelievable, like something from a film. The devastation would have been incredible if you did not know it was true.

"This is going to need the care of the clergy and the church to each other as it reminds us of the fragility of our lifestyles."

A book of condolence has been opened at the cathedral and at Blackburn Town Hall.

It is the first time since the death of Princess Diana in 1997 that either venue has opened a book of condolence.

By yesterday lunchtime, dozens of people had signed the book at the town hall, which will be sent to America.

Flags were lowered to half mast at every council building in the Lancashire as councillors expressed their disbelief at what had happened.

Coun Bill Taylor, leader of Blackburn with Darwen council, said: "I join all those who have expressed their horror and revulsion at the terrorist attack in America.

"Our sympathy goes out to relatives and friends of those killed or injured."

"Our thoughts are also with any local resident who is unsure about the whereabouts of relatives or friends in the U.S. at this time."

Flags were lowered at other buildings throughout the area, including all of Lancashire's fire stations and County Hall in Preston.