British 9/11 victims remembered

Relatives and friends of the victims gathered together under umbrellas for the weather-hit community concert and ceremony in Manhattan's Hanover Square, around half a mile from the World Trade Centre site.

When the public address system failed to work, speakers including the British Consul General Sir Alan Collins, put aside their prepared scripts and shouted off-the-cuff to the audience of dignitaries, victims' families and curious onlookers.

As he battled to be heard above the wind, rain and sirens from nearby emergency vehicles, Sir Alan praised those who were involved in creating the British Memorial Garden to remember those who died. He said he was "very proud" of the garden which showed the close ties between Britain and America.

Sir Alan said the attacks were "a terrible act of terrorism" but added that the garden and the concert were the "hugest tribute to those who lost their lives needlessly" in the attacks.

He led a minute's silence as a torn flag discovered in the debris at Ground Zero was held aloft. Sir Alan said the emergency sirens which could be heard during the silence were a poignant reminder of the attacks.

As the sky darkened and the downpour became heavier, three soloists - violinist Laura McGhee, of Dundee, Scotland, Welsh singer Rebecca Jenkins and soprano Deborah Shull - were protected by a single red and white umbrella featuring the Welsh dragon as they gave two performances each during the shortened ceremony.

Camilla Hellman, president of the British Memorial Garden Trust, said the concert was about looking ahead to the future, as well as paying tribute to those who were killed.

The £6.75 million garden, which is still under construction, is expected to open next year.

Earlier, the British and American flags headed a procession of British police officers, the New York Scottish Pipes and Drums Band and the West Point Pipes and Drums of the Cadet Corp into the garden.