THE American ambassador has thanked a group of ex-naval men and women from Atherton for their sympathy, after the terrorist attacks upon the World Trade Centre and the Pentagon.

Members of Atherton and District White Ensign Association decided at a meeting to offer their condolences to the American Embassy in London.

Ambassador William S. Farish has since sent them an appreciative reply: "Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kind message of comfort and support following the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11.

"The magnificent outpouring of sympathy in Britain has deeply moved all Americans.

"Your message will strengthen our resolve to fight the forces of terrorism and hatred. Freedom-loving people everywhere must come together to resist to scourge of fanaticism and reassert our common humanity."