The Queen last night sent a message of consolation to the British community in New York.

Foreign Secretary Jack Straw read the royal message at a service in St Thomas' Church in the heart of Manhattan.

The Queen spoke of the terrible loss of life and the justice of the hunt for the terrorists.

She said: "Every person who was lost that day was someone very special: a son, a daughter, a father, mother, husband, wife, loved one or valued friend. We remember them today for all they mean to us and for the void they leave in our lives.

"At this service this evening we recall especially the British victims and we think of their families, their friends and colleagues.

"No words can adequately express the sorrow felt or take away the pain of separation and the grief shared.

"The dreadful attacks of September 11 may have threatened freedom, innocence and other values we hold dear, but they also inspired grace, charity and courage.

"We honour the courage and determination of those in our armed forces and others who are striving to bring those responsible for this outrage to justice and to prevent similar atrocities in the future.

"Right must and will prevail."