The Watford Interfaith Association has passed on its condolences to the victims and their families following two terror attacks in New Zealand.

Police say 49 people have been killed in mass shootings at two mosques which were full of worshippers attending Friday prayers.

Dozens are seriously wounded.

Watford Observer:

Police escort witnesses away from a mosque in central Christchurch.Photo: PA

One man has been charged with murder while three other people have bene detained.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has called it "one of New Zealand's darkest days".

Watford Observer:

Armed police patrol outside a mosque in central Christchurch. Photo: PA

Fr Geoffrey Calvert, chairman of the interfaith association, said: “The members of Watford Interfaith Association wish to convey to our Muslim brothers and sisters in Christchurch, New Zealand, and here in Watford our feelings of sadness and compassion upon hearing of the terrible events which have taken place in Christchurch.

“As brothers and sisters in faith, our natural and overwhelming feeling is of utter horror and abhorrence of such acts. Friends we stand with you.”

Watford Labour parliamentary candidate Chris Ostrowski said: "I am deeply disturbed and saddened by the events in Christchurch today. My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families and I wish to express my solidarity with the Muslim community in Christchurch and across the world.

"Now more than ever it is vital that we all stand up and defend all those who face prejudice and persecution; that we stand up for our universal values of equality, respect and compassion against all those who would seek to deny them."

Cllr Asif Khan added: “After the shocking and chilling act of extreme right wing hatred and terrorism, it is clear that it has no place in any society. 

"The Muslim Community in Watford will pray for those who were killed and their families in New Zealand in Watford's mosques during Friday prayer today. 

"I really appreciate the words of sympathy from different people of different faiths or no faith that have been sent to the Muslim community."

Watford MP Richard Harrington echoed Prime Minister Theresa May's message.

She said: "On behalf of the UK, my deepest condolences to the people of New Zealand after the horrifying terrorist attack in Christchurch. My thoughts are with all of those affected by this sickening act of violence."

Cllr Ian Stotesbury added: "We're stronger together and I'm sure all of Watford condemn this horrible, vile attack. Diversity is a strength, tolerance is a virtue, and we must stand up for them around the world."