Many Havering residents were affected by the events of September 11 2001.

Ex-Campion School pupil Michael Cunningham, 39, died in the attacks.

Mr Cunningham had moved to the USA and worked as a broker on the south tower of the World Trade Center.

He was married and his wife Teresa had given birth to his son only three weeks earlier.

A recent post on his page on a September 11 memorial website said: “Michael you would be so proud of your wife for coping and giving your son a secure family life over the last 10 years.

“As we approach the 10 year anniversary your English friends will always remember you, with your wicked sense of humour and fantastic smile. Always in our thoughts God bless.”

Memorial

Neil Ewers, then 27, who had moved to New Jersey from Hornchurch, worked in the World Finance Centre – next door to the Twin Towers.

Mr Ewers arrived 30 minutes later than usual for work on September 11, 2001 and was forced to run from a huge fireball caused by the first plane hitting the World Trade Center.

He told the Recorder later that week: “It was like a dream, something you see in an action film.

“I can’t begin to think of how many people weren’t as lucky as me.”

A plaque was unveiled outside Havering Town Hall by Romford-based insurance company Aon in 2001. The company has branches in New York and its headquarters are in Chicago.

In September 2006 – the five-year anniversary – the American flag was flown alongside the St George’s and Union Jack flag (which was at half-mast) at Havering Town Hall.