9/11 impact still very raw

On the morning of 11th September 2001, thousands of New Yorkers went about their day oblivious to the trauma which was about to unfold.

Thousands of lives were lost and the world looked on in shock and horror.

Now, a decade on, America continues to rebuild its dignity as well as its skyline.

Former Valley pupil Phil Eyre, 33, moved over to work on Hollow Brook Golf Course, just outside New York, months after the attacks.

He said it is still hard for people to talk about it.

“It’s still a huge open wound around here. People don’t really talk about it,” he said.

“Everyone knows someone who lost their life that day and it’s a very sombre occasion.”

“I still don’t want to talk to people about it because I feel uncomfortable and don’t want to offend anyone.”

But the thought of not going in 2003, was never one that crossed his mind.

“I never felt worried,” said Phil, whose family still live in Worksop.

“I think we all have accepted that global terrorism is part of our daily life, when its your time, its your time.”

“If you are unlucky to be affected by terrorism I think it’s harder for those left behind to come to terms with it.”

To commemorate those lives which were lost, Hollow Brook will put the national flag on holes one, nine and 11.

“It’s a small gesture to show our respect for the families who lost people on that tragic day,” added the club’s director of golf, who is still patching the course up following Hurricane Irene’s impact on the Eastern coastline.

“A lot of the damage was superficial and main trees falling and flooding. The club never lost power so most of the membership were coming here to take advantage of the hot showers.”