MESSAGES of support are being sent to the United States from organisations and councils in Gwent.

Two books of condolence have been opened at Newport's Civic Centre and Library for those who wish to convey convey support and comfort to America. The Civic Centre flag is also at half mast.

The mayor of Newport, Councillor Ron Morris, said: "The tragic loss suffered by so many in New York, Washington and Pittsburgh has left the world shattered. Every one of us has felt sadness and grief for our fellows in the United States of America and our heart goes out to them."

Torfaen county borough council joined with community leaders, town councils and voluntary organisations to express sympathy.

Council leader Brian Smith said: "I know that community leaders across the county borough will join me in sending heartfelt sympathy to the people of the United States of America as they struggle to come to terms with this horror."

The county borough flag is flying at half mast at the Civic Centre in Pontypool as a mark of respect to those who lost their lives.

At Blaenau Gwent council, a minute's silence was held at its full meeting and prayers were given by the mayor's chaplain.

Council leader John Hopkins said: "Our hearts go out to all those families of the victims, to all those who are injured and in pain, and to all the rescue workers whose lives will never ever be the same again."

Monmouthshire county council will fly its flag at half mast for seven working days as a mark of sympathy for the thousands of lives lost.

Council chairman Donald Spencer has sent a message to the American Consulate in Cardiff extending his condolences and sympathy to the president and the people of the US, stating: "On behalf of the residents of Monmouthshire in Wales, I wish to express my outrage and condemnation at the appalling attacks on the American people and wish to offer my heartfelt condolences to all those who have been touched by this dreadful tragedy."

Abergavenny town council held a minute's silence and is flying its town hall flag at half mast.

And Caerphilly county borough council chairman Angus Donaldson said: "Our sympathy goes out to all the families who have lost loved ones."