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Last Updated: Tuesday, 19 July, 2005, 15:58 GMT 16:58 UK
London explosions: Your accounts
BBC News website reader Stephen Thornhill took this photo of the bomb-damaged bus in Tavistock Square

Did you witness the terrorist attacks in London? How have the explosions affected you?

The series of bomb attacks in the capital has claimed more than 50 lives and hundreds have been injured.

Relatives and friends of scores more have been searching for loved ones who may have been caught in the attacks.

Were you in London on Thursday? If so, we want to hear from you. Send us your experiences and photos, please include a phone number (this will not be published).

You can send any footage or pictures of the incident to 07921 648 159 or to yourpics@bbc.co.uk

This debate is now closed. Read a selection of your comments below.


The following comments reflect the balance of opinion we have received so far:

Nothing has made me more proud than to see the stoic peacefulness of Londoners
Stefan Codrington, London, UK
I've never been a patriotic person. But nothing has made me more proud than to see the stoic peacefulness of Londoners. There is such an undaunted look on every face in the street despite the long shadow that palls over us.
Stefan Codrington, London, United Kingdom

I missed the Kings Cross explosion by 10 minutes and was evacuated from Moorgate station. I need to send heartfelt thanks to the emergency services, LU staff and fellow commuters. Not once was there any panic and the calmness and determination of everyone to get on with their day made me so proud. The message we have sent to the misguided perpetrators who caused such grief in our great city is one of resolute defiance. We will not bow to your threats or your cruel actions, do not underestimate our collective strength in the face of adversity. My thoughts are with the victims and their families. Be strong.
Matt, London

I first want to wish the victims and their families of this sinister event my dearest sympathies. I have seen what the TV cameras can not show you since with these acts of terrorism. I have been an emergency responder to Oklahoma City bombing and the Pentagon 911. I feel that the people of Britain are a strong and courageous group of people and with time will overcome their trauma. When I visited London I found the city rich in history and wouldn't let this keep me from visiting again. God Bless.
Allen Rossi, Washington DC Area, USA

The emergency services were fantastic in such terrible circumstances. The provision of boats to clear Canary Wharf in the absence of any other transportation was wonderful. It was poignant to see pleasure steamers, little boats and the usual ferries queuing up to take their passengers away, free of charge. It reminded me of the spirit of Dunkirk.
Ann Chown, London UK

Was coming out of Liverpool Street when the first bomb went off then was down towards Aldgate when the second did. The worst day of my working life, complete panic, but we must all stand tall and not let these people win ever.
Spencer Bernstein, London, UK

Very impressed with the police, health, fire services, the people of London and most surprising the politician's response to this attack. It was bound to happen, it may happen again, but terrorists will not change this city or this country. Lets hope it strengthens London's diversity, and doesn't destroy it.
Sinead, London

I was waiting at Liverpool Street station and got onto the Circle Line train at 8.50. Just as I sat down I heard a massive explosion and the lights went out. There was an eerie silence and then someone said 'what was that?' We were then calmly told to leave the carriage and make our way up the stairs. This was a most terrifying experience. I don't know if everyone on all the other carriages were okay. I feel very tired and drawn today and very sorry for those people who were injured or killed. Terrorizing innocent people going about their daily business is cowardly and an almost blatant acceptance of defeat.
Maxine Goodes, Cheshunt, Herts, UK

I witnessed how my fellow Londoners reacted in a positive and disciplined way towards each other
Keya Sarker, Bushey, Herts
I was on Met line tube Thursday morning, a couple of trains behind the blast at Aldgate Station. I witnessed how my fellow Londoners reacted in a positive and disciplined way towards each other. I feel blessed to be alive, my heart reaches out for the injured and my deepest sympathy for the families who lost their loved ones. All I can say is stay united at this terrible time and let nothing destroy our spirit to overcome this.
Keya Sarker, Bushey, Herts

I was in the last carriage of the Circle Line train that had just left Paddington. The tube had just left when there was a sudden explosion and the square marked area in the centre of the tube exploded. By this time I had fallen down. There was black smoke everywhere and a very strong smell as if the wiring in the carriage was burning. The awful part was when we had to wait for at least 30 minutes before being evacuated. I knew that a bomb had exploded and the worst part for me during the next 30 minutes was the wait. After a painful 30 minutes we were told to walk up to the front carriage and down the tunnel. As I walked I began crying because I could not bear to see the state of the front 3 carriages. There was smashed glass everywhere, the carriage had almost melted. Everyone around me began crying. I must say that the people in my carriage were very calm and patient. We all comforted each other and there was no pushing or running around instead everyone quietly and calmly walked out onto the black tunnel before walking to the platform at Edgware Road. I would like to say that I have been using the tubes for the last 8 years and this will not stop me from carrying on with my day to day life.
Sharan, Middlesex, London

Ben Thwaites gives an account of the Edgware blast. I wanted to let him know that the "American" who helped cross to the bombed out carriage was a Canadian. Peter Zimonjic is a reporter for our daily newspaper, The Ottawa Citizen. In Sunday's paper he gives the same account as Ben from his own point of view. Theirs are two views of a short moment in time when London showed the world what a class act it is.
Sue McSheffrey, Renfrew, Canada

My thoughts and prayers are with the families who have been affected by the terrible happenings in London. Although in the US, I am a British citizen that used to work in London and know the blast areas very well as I used to come into London via Liverpool Street and also went to Kings Cross occasionally. So it was un-nerving when I heard and knew I had been there. I was in London during the IRA bombings and in New York after 9/11 and can remember feeling anxious. I would like all who read this to know I am praying for you and that those of you in London.
Martyn Laitt, Connecticut, USA

I take the Piccadilly line southbound around that time every day. There had been normal service delays anyway, and as a result I was running late. All of the trains were packed and I couldn't get on the first one at my station. I got on the next one to arrive around 5 minutes later and squeezed on. We continued to Caledonian Road Station when the driver announced the power had gone and he couldn't find out why. I have to say that not all of the drivers are as communicative, but he was great and deserves a lot of praise. He then informed us to leave the station as there was an issue with the train in front. Luckily we were in a station and not having to evacuate from a tunnel. Its scary to think had I been at my station maybe a minute earlier and got on the first train things could have been much worse.
John, London

For a reason that I will never know, I got on and off that Kings Cross/Russell Square train and decided to catch a bus. The emergency services did fantastically well but I would really like us to thank the London Transport staff too. They had the day from hell too yet they had to get past their own personal worries and try their best to get passengers to safety.
Bobby, London

My fiancé, Paul, and I were on the second carriage from the back on the King's Cross/Russell Square tube. The experience was terrifying and we are so glad to have escaped fully fit - my thoughts are with the families and friends of those who lost their lives and with those who are injured, I do hope they get better soon. I must comment on the great spirit of those who were in the carriage with us - people so often comment on the arrogance of Londoners and how unfriendly we are - yesterday there was none of that. We all rallied together helping one another get through it - holding hands, sharing water, calming those who were panicked. When we emerged from the underground and made frantic calls to our family and friends many people stopped to check we were okay. I am sure London will be back on its feet very soon.
Katherine Wilde, London

Whoever has done this tried to tear our country apart
Natalie Goddard, Chichester, England
My heart is with anyone who has suffered in any way but especially to those who have lost close friends or family, in this horrendous act of terror. Whoever has done this tried to tear our country apart. Well they haven't, they've just made it closer. So to whoever did it, just remember we are the champions and in my eyes long live the champions!
Natalie Goddard, Chichester, England

I am a Londoner born and bred, living in America for the past year. When a friend of mine told me about the London bombings, I spent the entire day in front of the TV watching ANY news channel that was covering the attacks. Most of the time I was in tears but I had the comfort of close friends to support me. My thoughts and prayers go to those loved ones who lost someone during 07/07. However, as a people we Londoners WILL survive.... if London can withstand the Blitz... we can survive anything.
Gerwyn Cory, NC, USA

I was unable to get on the bus that exploded so I and three others got on the one in front. Downstairs was busy so we went upstairs, the front was busy, so we went to very back. There was a lady sitting on the long seat and she said something like "don't know why you got on this bus, it ain't going anywhere". I turned to answer her and the bus behind us exploded before my eyes. I have never in my life been so frightened - the noise, that noise was horrible. I saw the bus shake, I saw the top collapse or at least I thought it had. I saw people standing up or at least I thought I did!

Then the top of our bus became hysterical, people were screaming and I remember being pushed down the stairs. I remember thinking, don't trip Laraine whatever you do don't trip. Next thing I knew we were out on the street again running away from the scene. I did look back for a second but somebody pulled me along with them. I felt I should have gone back to help but I was so very frightened. I work in Moorgate and my train from Winchmore Hill was diverted into Kings X.

I will never forget that noise and may those dear people that died rest in peace. I am sorry, I do not have any pictures although I was holding my mobile phone - the pictures are still too real and clear in my head. I don't think what I have written helps you but maybe it helps me. I am alive, I couldn't get on that fated bus. Time heals they say?
Laraine Gordon, London, England

The London police in the Tube stations are to be commended
Donna, Oklahoma, USA
My family and I were in London visiting and were in the London Underground during Thursday's attacks. We were on our way to Gatwick airport. We started at Paddington Station and were evacuated at Baker Street Station just minutes after the blasts occurred. We were in the vicinity of Edgware Road when that bomb went off. The London police in the Tube stations are to be commended for not getting the people panicked. They were very calm. The British people on the train to the airport were so kind to us and offered their cell phones to us to call home to America to let our loved ones know we were okay. I love London and will definitely be back.
Donna Bratschun, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA

On Thursday I took the train as usual at Turnpike Lane to go to King's Cross where I had to get a train to Manchester. I arrived there a couple of minutes after the train that exploded left the platform. I got, as usual, on the first carriage. I was late and angry for the way the Tube works in rush hours. I was thinking that maybe it is true: London will not cope with the Olympics. At Finsbury Park the driver said that the train would not stop at King's Cross so my partner and I got off and took a mainland train. I was angry and now I feel guilty. I know we were so lucky to escape all that, my thoughts go to all the people who got caught in a way or another, to the family of the dead and the missing people. I am Italian, I have been leaving here for 7 years now and I am so proud to be part of this multicultural and brave city. The calm that everybody showed on the day and that I saw on TV and videos it's unbelievable, as well as the sense of solidarity. Christian, Muslim, it does not matter we will be united. We are not afraid.
Monica, Italy/UK

My boyfriend and his daughter had just arrived in London that day. They were going to spend a week there as a holiday. If they had arrived 2 hours earlier they would probably have been on one of affected trains as they were going from Stansted Airport to the Russell Square. Fortunately, they had to remain at the airport. Since the phones collapsed they lacked information about what exactly had happened. I was on the net all the day providing them with news from BBC. Fortunately, they caught the plane back the same day. They have got over the shock and are going back to London next month! A lot of sympathy with the families and friends of victims!
Lenka, Pardubice, Czech Republic

London lives on and so will we
Sara Hall, Somerset, UK
I'm still in shock over the awful events that unfolded in London last Thursday. My heart goes out to every person affected by this tragedy. I've never been to London myself. I'm 24 and even more determined to get to see the amazing city and people that are 'London'. London lives on and so will we. I have so much respect for those people going back to work and showing the terrorists that we won't be scared away or taking things steady. We are all here to carry on living freely.
Sara Hall, Somerset, UK

To all the people who have told their stories of 7/7: I hope that as the days and weeks pass you come to realize how brave and inspiring you are. You kept your wits about you and helped your neighbours through a horrific experience. Hats off to you. Nothing can bring back those innocents lost or ease the grief of their loved ones but the world is grateful that you survived.
Lisa, Arkansas, USA

I had to walk home on Thursday and I was struck by the way people talked together. London is usually a place where you don't even make eye contact during your commute. However, on Thursday I talked to people I didn't know; sharing information and feelings with them. It was a good thing that came from such a terrible atrocity. I am still saddened by this and my heart goes out to all those who have lost friends or are still waiting for news.
Charlote Hood, London, UK

My gym is in Woburn Place, if I had not been feeling unwell on Thursday 7 July I would have been leaving there and walking along that road when the bus bomb went off! I have another friend who thankfully overslept that morning because otherwise she would probably have been on the train that blew up! I thank God that my family and friends are safe and my thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.
Bridget O'Dea, London, UK

I am just returning to Sri Lanka from London and it is incredible. The people here are still in, what seems like, the unending aftermath of the 2004 tsunami and yet all that everyone in the country is talking about here is the appalling attacks in London. The world has done so much to help the people here recover from their fate and yet all these people, including my colleagues at the institute, can do is offer our heartfelt, deepest sympathies. Peace and harmony.
Dr A J Madagoi, Anaradhapura, Sri Lanka

I have been extremely shocked and saddened by Thursday's events. My thoughts are going to the families and the people of London. I would like to add that I have the greatest admiration for the British people and the Londoner for going on about their lives after such an event. Your courage is a lesson to us all.
Laurent, Paris, France

Condolences to the families and friends who have lost loved ones
Kate, Melbourne, Australia
I just want to say that the attacks on London have been deeply felt here in Australia, I think because so may people here have relatives and friends in London and the UK who could easily have been involved in the horror that occurred. I have a friend that would have been on the Edgware Rd train if not for a cancelled business meeting, for example. Condolences to the families and friends who have lost loved ones, and keep standing firm as you have been, it's the only way we can beat this.
Kate, Melbourne, Australia

Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you recover from this terrible ordeal. The Union Jack is flying at our home and in our hearts.
Miriam Henderson McFall, Minnesota, USA

I cannot stop thinking about the awful events of Thursday 7th July. My thoughts are with the families and friends of those who are lost. We need to unite as a nation to show we will not be intimidated by evil.
Caroline, London

No matter what our colour or religion we are British
Mike, UK
I think it's about time we showed the world that we the British are united as a people whether Christian, Muslim, Agnostic, Hindu, Sikh or whatever. Let's all get together and march with linked arms to show the world and the terrorists that no matter what our colour or religion we are British, we are united and we won't bow to terrorism.
Mike, UK

The emergency services did a brilliant job yesterday; I think all their training has paid off.
Louise Forster, Milton Keynes

My heart goes out to everyone who has lost loved ones after the London blasts yesterday. I had a co-worker stuck in London and not being able to reach him on his mobile was terrifying. Fortunately he is safe and well. I just hope these cowards are caught and brought to justice. Keep your chins up London and be proud of being British.
Cailin, Feltham, UK

As a British Muslim, I am absolutely appalled by the horrific attacks this week, as is the rest of my community. The attacks were indiscriminate and it's vital that we all, regardless of religion or race, continue to hold a united front against these barbarians.
Ghazala, Birmingham, UK

People are asking what we should do now. Here's what I'm going to do: I'm going to grieve the loss of so many fellow Londoners. Then I'm going to get up, fill my lungs with London air, fill my glass with London ale and then I'm going to live my life exactly as I did before. That's what I'm going to do.
Stuart, London

After a lot of confusion at Euston station yesterday and missing a few buses, I saw a No 30 bus at Woburn Place with people getting off. My friend and I ran to catch it, we knocked on the door for the driver to open the door, he didn't as he needed I suppose to pull away in order to let an unmarked blue coloured car with the sirens going that was stuck in traffic trying to go through into Euston road. The bus was full but not cramped with people. I started to walk in the same direction as the bus not knowing where I was going but to heading towards the city. Two to three minutes later, a big blast happened and smoke was up in the air. All the people around thought a building had a blast and we all ran back towards Euston Road, not realising that it was the No 30 bus that had blown apart. My prayers are for all those that lost their lives to this tragic incident wherever they were and to their families. Today Friday, I braved my journey back into Euston Station and only to find Euston underground was closed due to a security alert at 9.20am. I went to get the bus into Angel feeling queasy but just got onto the No 205 to Angel hoping I would reach home at the end of the day to family/friends.
Minaxi, London, UK

British people will not be put off from their normal lives by this sort of activity
Terence Goode, City of London
The whole point of terrorism is to strike fear into the victims. As a worker in the City, nothing has changed. I used a bus yesterday evening and the Tube today. Passengers on the Tube read papers, slept and looked no different this morning. People were in bars and restaurants last night and will be there today. The financial markets bounced back quickly and shops are open. It's business as usual. There is no fear. Terrorism will not work in the UK. I've never been especially patriotic but it strikes me the British people will not be put off from their normal lives by this sort of activity.
Terence Goode, City of London

I think another way we can show the terrorists that whatever they do will never and hasn't destroyed London's community is by forgiving the terrorists. It may sound strange but if we forgive them then they will realise that we as Londoners will always be there for each other and will never step down to terrorists. They will never break our love, care and bond between each other.
Megan Phillips, Purley

I'm sad and deeply wounded by these horrific attacks on the innocents. Being a Muslim even hurts me more because those claimed for the attacks carry the name of my belief and turn the world against Muslims. Never once has the religion said it is your duty to take lives of people. It affects me in more than one way: I am hurt for the victims and their families, but I am also hurt for the future victims of hate crime. Please help us come together at this tragic time and help prevent hate crime towards innocent Muslims in London.
Lela Haan, Minneapolis, USA

Being a British Asian, I strongly condemn the attacks
Jay Singh, Harrow, Middlesex
I express my sympathy to the families who have lost their love ones and to those who have sustained injuries. Being a British Asian, I strongly condemn the attacks and want to see the perpetrators dealt with strongly.
Jay Singh, Harrow, Middlesex

I was on the eastbound Circle Line train from Paddington. I only took the Circle Line because there were delays on the Bakerloo. I thought we had collided with the westbound train. When I emerged from Edgware Road station, I felt strangely disorientated but very happy to be ok. I bought a bottle of water from the nearby Tesco and had to apologise for my dirty hands as the cashier handed me my change! I decided to head straight home instead of going to work. Only when I was nearly at Reading did I learn it was a terrorist attack. Well done to the LU staff and Emergency Services.
Will Thomas, Didcot, UK

I want to express my sadness of what happened. Our condolences to the British people. As an Arabic Muslim, we are completely against violence. We want peace and happiness to everybody in the world.
J. Ahmad, Jordan

I was on one of the trains that were damaged at Edgware Rd, and your timings are really wrong. I looked at my phone at 10 to nine, annoyed that I was going to be late for work. The bomb went off shortly afterwards. We were underground for about 20 minutes and then taken off the trains. I rang my work at 9.12am to say I'd be in a bit later. Wounded people were sitting in the station as we walked out, and people were asking if anyone had called an ambulance. I think I saw police showing up at 9.17am, not the blast itself.
Clem, London

The rescue staff and all the volunteers were absolutely amazing
Carol Miller, Witney, Oxfordshire
I was aboard the Tube at Edgware Road, opposite the carriage that blew up. I cannot explain what horrors we all saw and how that will affect me for the rest of my life. There were many heroes in our carriage, but I would especially like to thank the wonderful man that looked after me and my friend. Without you I'm not sure how we would have coped, you are truly my hero! I'm just sorry that I can't thank you personally. The rescue staff and all the volunteers were absolutely amazing and you are all true heroes, I will remember you all for the rest of my life.
Carol Miller, Witney, Oxfordshire

I was on one of the Edgware Rd trains. After the blast I tried to call the office - the call was registered at 08:54.
Dorothy Flynn, Edinburgh, Scotland

I'm very surprised that there were so many deaths claimed at the King's Cross explosion. I was standing at the front of the second carriage and apart from a couple of voices that were screaming and praying, there were no cries for help that indicated serious injury or even death. Especially as many as 21 or more as reported. People were in a state of shock but remained calm. Is there any information on how they died or how the explosion could have killed them?
Mandy Yu, London

I was on the eastbound Hammersmith and City train that had just stopped at Edgware Road station. We heard a loud bang, which shook our train. An announcement said that it was a power surge. Everyone was stressed and was told to evacuate. I thought: "London is useless, they don't deserve the Olympics". That makes me feel really guilty now. I know the blast went off at around 8.50am because that is my routine. I always take the same train at the same time, to arrive at Kings Cross at 9am. It's my routine, we were all just doing what we usually do - it's very unfair. Now it is just dealing with the guilt of leaving the others suffering and dying behind. But we were told it was a power surge that is why we left them behind. If I had known I would have tried to help - I just didn't know.
Sigrun Matthiesen, London, Bayswater

As a New Yorker who lived through the attacks of 9/11, I want to offer the British people my thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time. Time will heal.
Rachel, New York, USA

My deepest sympathy goes out to everyone who has been affected by this terrible day
Olivia, Hampshire, UK
What happened in London on Thursday was a terrible shock. I myself am 13 years old and was on the Tube at the same time the day before. I was so lucky that I didn't go on Thursday instead of Wednesday. I feel so sorry for all the people who are affected by this terror act. I just don't understand how people can have the sole ambition to go out and destroy lives. My deepest sympathy goes out to everyone who has been affected by this terrible day.
Olivia, Hampshire, UK

I cannot believe after everything that happened yesterday that people have the cheek to moan about London's Tubes! For those who managed to get out alive, you should be rejoicing, for there were many out there who were not as lucky as you. Well done to the emergency services for being true heroes!
Stephanie Stevens, Carshalton, Surrey

My wife and I were in London on holiday last spring and went to King's Cross (to see Platform 9 3/4) and are just appalled by these bombings. We loved London and are seriously considering moving there. I admire the people of England and their steel and determination.
Nick Moscato, Boston, MA

I decided to work from home on the day of the bombings and didn't use the Piccadilly line as I would normally do during the morning rush hour. I am more determined than ever to make sure I carry on using the underground to travel to work and plan on using it when I go to watch the London Olympics in 2012. I am proud of the way people of all faiths have come together and condemned this dastardly act. These cowards will not succeed in terrorising Londoners. They have already lost their so-called war.
Nitin, London

I went through Liverpool St an hour before the bomb. I work at a school near Aldgate East and all I can say is that everyone was amazing. The staff at school looked after the pupils, and each other, with such professionalism and compassion. Today I went on a bus and a Tube for the first time since Thursday. I needed to do it, I can't live my life being scared of public transport!
Nancy, London

I wanted to highly praise the driver for how calm, assuring and often amusing he was
Mia, London
I was stuck on the Piccadilly train behind the one that exploded for over two hours in a very cramped, hot carriage and I wanted to highly praise the driver for how calm, assuring and often amusing he was. He kept in communication with us, letting know what was going on (power cut to whole system), and what was happening next.

His best quote was when he had tried to evacuate us all onto the train behind, but, because we were in the first carriage, by the time we had got close to the other train, it was too full to get us on. He said something like: "I don't know how you do it every day, but you all managed to squeeze yourselves onto that [first] train. But I can't now get you all onto the other train. I've tried, but there are pregnant women in there. So you lot are going to have to wait, we'll take the other train back to Arsenal and then we'll come back for you. You'll be on your own, but we'll be back soon." (not exact words)

They left us there, and then the power came on, together with the air con - he advised us to close all the doors and vents to take advantage of the air con. After a bit, our train started reversing and we were able to get off onto the station through the driver's door. I don't know if you can forward my thanks to this driver. His voice is heard on the amateur mobile video titled "Passenger praises tube driver's calm", from about 1:05 seconds into the footage.
Mia, London

I was nowhere near London on this day. My brother and his girlfriend were, both travelling through King's Cross. It was, without a doubt, the longest day until we finally managed to contact them both, with paranoia having firmly set in. I despise the way I have been made to feel by these people, with their cowardice all too evident. My sincere condolences to anyone directly affected by this atrocious act.
Sean, Surrey, UK

The sight of thousands doing what they could to get into work on Friday, whether it be walking, cycling, catching the bus or tube, sends a clear message to the perpetrators of these mindless acts: Londoners will not be beaten, frightened or deterred by your actions. You will not succeed!
Mike, Harrow

The actions of the driver made the experience a little easier with his calm manner
Joan Grey, London
I was one of the many people stuck on the train in the tunnel at Holloway Road for over two hours. Though it was overcrowded and very hot we were kept informed of everything that was happening. We all had to be put on a train and driven away from the area. We were the train behind the bombed train at King's Cross. The actions of the driver made the experience a little easier with his calm manner and his sense of humour. I don't know who he was but if you or anyone who knows him reads this please let him know his efforts were appreciated! Thank you.
Joan Grey, London

I am a Muslim, and I missed the bombs at King's Cross by about 10 minutes, I felt really lucky as I had a chance encounter with a friend which made me change my usual journey to work. However, the one image that I will remember for the rest of my life is how people rushed to help a cyclist who fell over in the street. It made my heart grow to see humanity is still alive, and how events like this only make us come closer.
Ozan Bagatirlar, London, UK

I live in the UK, (London area to be more exact) for several years. London was and still is my second home. I pray for the families that have lost dear ones. I worked at the Russell Square area and have a lot of friends in London. Glad to hear that they are all fine. My love to all the British brave people who know how to keep their cool.
Marija Mir de Sanchez, Uruguay

It was difficult to breathe but most of us were very calm
Corinne Brown, Peterborough

I was on the Piccadilly line train at Kings Cross - I squeezed onto the crowded rear carriage at the last minute. When the train slammed to a halt after about 100 metres we had no idea it was a bomb, we thought the train was on fire. Some people panicked a bit as the smoke was so thick and it was difficult to breathe but most of us were very calm. Some people close to the rear door got it open but we didn't know if the rails were still live and were reluctant to go down the track. Eventually 3 people carefully walked down the track to find help and very quickly underground staff arrived to evacuate us.

Outside King's Cross I was still convinced it was a fire and decided to get on the Northern Line if I could to continue my journey. I was walking towards Euston when a heard the bus blow up, but convinced myself it just couldn't be a bomb. Thanks to the staff at London Underground and the emergency services for acting so quickly, to all the people involved for being so calm and helpful and to staff at the Quaker meeting house where we waiting out most of the day, I was starting to feel the shock once I realised what had happened and how lucky I was, normally I get on the first carriage available, which would have been the first one.
Corinne Brown, Peterborough

I am a Londoner and a Muslim. The people that carried out these attacks are not Muslims in my eyes, to kill innocent people is against the foundations of Islam. Muslims across the world should condemn and denounce these barbarians from having anything to do with our faith. I am so proud of my City for the solidarity Londoners have shown. We have to remain strong and not let the terrorists win.
Saira, London

The explosions made me more proud to be British and to be part of a multicultural society. I believe the best thing we can do to support Londoners and to send a clear message to these criminals that we belong to one nation is to ask leading religious groups and non religious groups to organise a march in support of London and its inhabitants and all those that were affected by these violent acts. Let these people know that British Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus, Sikhs, other faiths and Secular stand as one against this barbarity.
Nouri, Coventry

I was on the Kings cross tube that blew up. I was in the middle carriage. It was terrible. We were down there for 30 minutes but it felt like a life time. I thought I was going to die. We then had to walk down the tunnel. I will never forget the screams and the driver coming through on the intercom but didn't say anything. My heart goes out to everyone. I can't believe I am alive I am shocked and saddened by what has happened. I can't explain what went through my thoughts just that I thought I would never see my family or friends again. I am one of the lucky ones. I want to thank all the emergency services they were brilliant. I am proud to be British. It will be along time before I get on a tube again. I can not explain the feeling of being trapped for that long not knowing what had happened. I Pray that the cowards who did this are brought to justice they need to suffer just like I and everyone else who was on the tubes or that bus. Thanks for listening. It's good to talk as they say
Amy Washington, Finsbury Park

I just can't make sense of the things I saw
Ben Thwaites, UK

I was onboard one of the trains that was caught by the bomb at Edgware road last week, and I just can't make sense of the things I saw. Innocent people of all nations and creeds screaming, crying and dying. A huge explosion rocked our train and the one passing us, putting the lights out and filling the tunnel with an acrid, burning smoke. Panic set in with screams and shouts of 'fire' then came the shouts from the bombed carriage. Not strong shouts for help, but desperate pleas.

We realised that it was the train next to us that had been badly damaged, with the bombed carriage stopping directly opposite the carriage we were in, people cover in blood and with tattered, burnt clothing where trying to escape that train and enter our carriage, but we couldn't open the doors - they where calling for help and we couldn't get to them. Passengers with medical experience where found, I found a tool box and we smashed a window, allowing the medical guys to enter the other train, There was nothing left in that carriage, nothing. Blackened shredded walls, roof buckled, heavy tube doors twisted off. We collected warm coats, water, ties for tourniquets anything to help... but there are no medical supplies to be found on the train, not even a torch.

One elderly man sitting down, being spoken to, deathly pale, another on the floor bleeding so heavily. The smoke clearing, scream dying down as people forced there way into other carriages, or simply passed away. I was sent to hurry the medical help along, to explain that people where dead and dying, but I couldn't make the medical crews enter the tunnel until they had the ok...

I wish I could have done more. Everyone that helped was great - the train staff, the passengers, the medics, firemen and police - all where brave, calm and professional, but we were all reacting in shock, all going to slowly for the people in real trouble. 2 guys stand out in my mind - a smaller man, medically trained who was first into the other train, and a much larger man, American I think, who went over with him. Both of them brave and calm, putting others before themselves.
Ben Thwaites, Crowthorne, Berkshire - UK

I work in the BMA building. When I heard the blast and looked out of the window the sight was shocking. My colleagues and I were going to go down to help, but the fire alarms went off and we were evacuated. I left via the fire exit with the smell of burning flesh getting more and more intense as I got closer to the ground floor. As I got to the ground floor there were people laying in the reception area covered in blood. When I stepped outside the first thing I saw was a body laying on the ground to my left. It was unrecognisable - just a heap of bloody flesh. My thoughts are with everyone that has been affected by this tragedy.
Toni Poole, Dagenham, UK

I am a Muslim born and brought up in Manchester and i strongly condemn the horrific attacks of yesterday. In no way can the terrorists call themselves Muslims, they use the name of Islam as a cover up, but in no way do these attacks represent Islam. The word itself means 'Peace' and Muslims around the world greet each other with the words 'May peace be upon you'. The people behind these attacks should be caught and prosecuted severely as there is absolutely no justification for killing innocent civilians. No matter what the West has done in Iraq - TWO WRONGS DO NOT MAKE A RIGHT.
Tooba Farooq, Manchester, UK

What a difference a few seconds makes! I was walking down Upper Woburn place after making a few phone calls as the tubes were out, while making my calls a few buses pasted me as I was stationary outside St Pancras Church. I initially walked with the flow of traffic and people, luckily I decided to go the long way around Tavistock Square and crossed the street in front of the BMA building to get away from the heavy traffic. Barely 20 secs into my diversion the No.30 bus that I had past while crossing the street exploded. I am very lucky as the blast force did not come in my direction but towards the BMA building which was evident as the there was now blood streaked across the side of the building. The Police, Fire service where there within a minute. I saw two body's in the street and scattered debris everywhere. On Friday I forced myself to do everything I was going to do Thursday morning jumped of the tube and buses with out any change to my routine as thousands of others did with pride from my city. London what a city, we will never be terrorised by weak minded, brain washed fools.
Mark Wignall, Euston, London

I was in the carriage that blew up in the Edgware Road incident, I don't want to describe the memories I have of when I lifted my head up off the floor, but I would like to thank the lady who came from the first carriage who, what seemed to be like my guardian angel just appeared in the doorway of the adjoining carriage. She came straight to me and helped lift the doors that were on top of me then helped me up, took my hand and walked me through the first carriage where the manholes in the carriage were blown out, she and another man, a South African or Australian person, whom I thanked when i was about to get into the ambulance. They both walked me down the side of the track back towards Edgware road, we sat down on the side of the track and i asked her if she was just a passenger or someone else, she said she was a passenger.
Danny Belsten, Manchester

I boarded the Piccadilly Line train at Kings Cross. I was running a bit late and there was an announcement that trains were delayed due to a fire alert, which meant that the platform was more packed than usual. Usually I board the train in one of the front two carriages since it's close to exit at Piccadilly Circus, which is where I work. However, I decided to move to the centre of the platform where there was a bit more space to stand. I managed to board the train, on the fourth carriage, although it was a tight squeeze. We left Kings Cross and about a minute later there was a muffled bang and the train jolted. The carriage was engulfed in smoke and everyone was coughing. None of us on the carriage had any idea that there was an explosion and thought it was a derailment, and generally most people were outwardly calm, although I'm sure we were all terrified inside. It was hot, dark and the smoke filled atmosphere made breathing difficult. We could hear loud screams that came from further down the tunnel, although I don't think any of us had any idea of just how bad things were in the front carriages. I suppose that not knowing what was really going on was a blessing in disguise, otherwise I'm sure there would have been mass panic. About 30 minutes later station staff managed to get to us and guided us off the train. It was only when I got home that I realised that this was a terrorist attack, which sent a chill down my spine.
Jahor Gupta, London, UK

I was in Edgware Road train station, waiting for my friend. There was a big explosion. I was lucky to escape from that blast. I became faint and a police officer woke me up by putting water on my face. When I woke up I saw a very deadly scene which I will never forget in my life. The platform was full of blood, people were screaming and shouting to get off the platform.
Bindesh, London, England

All Kuwaiti people thoughts and prayers with all Londoners, it's a crime committed by cowards whom have no respect for precious human lives, they are nothing but a bunch of criminals who disgrace the name of Islam.
Abeer, Kuwait

I'm lucky; I was on the platform at Kings Cross waiting for the Piccadilly Line train and decided not to get on because it was too crowded. I went outside and spent 45 minutes looking for which bus to get to Holborn. Arrived at Tavistock Square 5 minutes after the blast there. My bus was evacuated and I started walking. I spent 15 minutes calming down a woman who had seen the blast. Lenin said that "the purpose of terrorism is to terrorise". To the terrorists, you failed. People died but London 1 Terrorists 0. Thanks to the police and emergency services for their incredibly professional work helping everybody to get home.
Mark Tiller, Welwyn Garden City, Herts, UK

The Harbour Bridge here in Sydney proudly, but sadly, carries two flags at half-mast this weekend - and one of them is the Union Jack. Need I say more?
Elisabeth, Sydney Australia

There are many inaccurate accounts of the Aldgate bomb. I was on a Circle Line train that I joined at Kings Cross and we were between Liverpool Street and Aldgate when the bomb went off. I was in the second last carriage the lights went out on the train but there was light in the tunnel, we did not know what had happened but there was some smoke, a man opened a connecting door and told us that there was a lot of smoke further up the train and could we move down to the rear, passengers came into our carriage from the ones with the smoke. There were some awful screams of help from the front of the train someone said there were dead people up there, then LT staff appeared on the track and told us to exit the rear of the train, as we were doing this we were told to stand aside and let injured people out. Once outside the train we walked up the track to Aldgate station past the carriage were the bomb was - there were obviously some dead and some very badly injured passengers, we could do nothing for them we were told to exit the station as soon as possible. The LT staff and emergency services were on the site within ten minutes and the evacuation was well organised especially as there were many dazed and confused passengers.
Richard Sage, Stamford, England

Our carriage held intact and that is what saved us all
Nancy Newton, Swanscombe
I was in the Edgware Road train, in the carriage that was alongside the carriage that had the bomb in it. We were in a tunnel passing this train when the explosion happened. Although I was only 6 to 8 feet away our carriage held intact and that is what saved us all. The windows did not break or even shatter. I think a great testament to the people who build these carriages/windows.
Nancy Newton, Swanscombe

I boarded the tube train leaving Edgware Road heading for Paddington at about 8.50am. Approximately a minute later there was a loud explosion, darkness, smoke, dust and glass everywhere. Everything went quiet for about 10-20 seconds. Then the screaming started. It was so dark you couldn't see 2 inches in front of you. The window behind me had exploded in, part of the ceiling was on the floor and there was a large hole in the floor. When the tunnel lights came on you could see people with blood on their faces, but everyone was calm and started helping the injured. We broke through into the next carriage where it was even worse. There was a lady on the floor and someone was giving her mouth to mouth, but she had stopped breathing, and another gentleman with a large gash across his leg was screaming for help. We helped where we could.

The passengers in the unaffected tube travelling in the opposite direction passed bottles of water across through the doors they had forced open. About 20 minutes later the message came through that those who could walk should move to the front of the train and disembark and walk down the track. As we could do no more for the injured, we disembarked and started to walk down the dark track, but after a short distance we were stopped and told that a person had been blown out of the train against the tunnel wall and could not be moved as he was critical. Approximately a further 15 minutes passed before the metro staff appeared with a small ladder and led us back onto the train, through the carriages and out of the end of the train towards the station. Once out of the tunnel we were given water and led to Marks and Spencer's where we were checked by medics and police took statements. My thanks to the metro staff, medics, police, Marks and Spencer's staff and all involved in the rescue. They were exceptional. The calmness, courage and fortitude of my fellow passengers restored my faith in my fellow man.
Chris Stones, Whitchurch, UK

Praise for the London Bus drivers and Tube drivers who went back to work on Thursday and Friday. Couldn't have been easy!
Sheena, London

My husband is a former Londoner who was at his job in New York City on 11 September 2001. While he was seeking a way out of the city that day, I rushed home to get word to his friends and family back in England that he was all right. Yesterday, it was the same all over again. The sick feelings and shock as a mundane morning suddenly becomes an emergency.

The rush back home to contact loved ones. Only this time, the calls and emails were going the other direction. He was calling to confirm the safety of the exact same people who had called to see if he was safe on 9/11.
Lisa B, Ringoes, NJ, USA

I was working in Exeter taking calls at BT directory enquires when I heard. I then remembered that my husband was there but thank God he came home to me. My thoughts are with all those involved. My heart goes out to you all.
Mrs Karla Rigler, Exeter, Devon





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