AMERICAN citizens from Worcester's twin town are not letting the terrorists win and have pledged to make an appearance at the city's Christmas fair.

The organisers say they are "delighted" a delegation from Worcester, Massachusetts, will be travelling to Britain next month.

JoAn Geisler will lead a group of five residents from the US city, which is the second biggest in the state after Boston.

"We're delighted they are coming and have not been put off by the terrorism and are determined to lead normal lives," said George Milton, honorary secretary of the City of Worcester Twinning Association.

"I have spoken to them and they all sound very positive about the trip and are looking forward to the fair.

Special interest

"Although we have been twinned with the American town for two years, we still don't have the support of their city hall so the visitors tend to be ordinary people who have a special interest in our town.

"During their visit they are also planning to fly on to our French twin town of Le Vesinet and return home from Paris."

Delegates from France and Worcester's third twin town Kleve, in Germany, will also be adding a cosmopolitan air to the festive celebrations.

"The international flavour at the Victorian Christmas Fayre will extend beyond the presence of our European and American partners," said Clare Booker, assistant tourism and marketing manager for Worcester City Council.

"We have a range of unusual gifts and exotic crafts for sale from all parts of the globe - perfect for Christmas presents.

"Each twin town has a well-established stall at the fair where they sell specific goods including Stollen from Germany and wine from France.

"They also provide local people with information on their city and the twinning relationship with Worcester."