Last updated at 14:24, Saturday, 05 June 2010

ITV'S International Editor, Bill Neely, has led a message of sincere thanks to the people of West Cumbria for their patience and understanding during the coverage of the shooting tragedy.

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Mr Neely, who covered the Hungerford shooting in 1987, spoke as all the media trucks moved away from their base in Duke Street, Whitehaven.

He said the area had seen the worst that a man can do but was now seeing the best that man can do.  "All around your streets and neighbouring villages is the evidence of what terrible things man can do and yet the very best of human nature is on display here too."

And he added: "Like many communities that have a history of disaster- deep in the ground and far out at sea- trauma may be in the DNA of West Cumbria. But your stoicism in the face of the many recent tragedies is to be admired,even celebrated. From all my team at ITV News thank you for your hospitality, your understanding of our jobs, your patience and your wonderful spirit."

Mr Neely's thoughts were echoed by other journalists who told The Whitehaven News they had found nothing but warmth and understanding from the people of West Cumbria.

Bill Neely's full letter of thanks will be published in next Thursday's Whitehaven News.

First published at 14:14, Saturday, 05 June 2010
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk