Giuliani urges visitors to return to New York

New York mayor Rudolph Giuliani has encouraged travellers to return to New York and help boost its economy.

Shortly after the terrorist attacks, the tough-talking mayor urged foreign and domestic visitors to stay away from Manhattan. However, he has now urged tourists not to be deterred by the atrocities, repeating assurances that the devastated city will recover and saying the best way for people to show their support is to continue with their holiday plans.

“I urge people from all over the country who want to help, come and spend some money, go to a restaurant, see a play,” he said.

Lower Manhattan remains a no-go zone for tourists while rescue work continues. At the current rate, the removal of rubble from the World Trade Centre collapse will take more than a year and officials fear bodies will still be buried at Christmas.