Fear of flying because of concern over terrorist attacks has more than halved the number of Americans coming to Wallingford next month.

Normally, about 70 people from Wallingford, Connecticut, make the trip -- but this year there will be only 29.

Rose Owen, who has been organising the exchange visits with her husband Richard for 25 years, said: "There is a very definite fear of flying. But we are pleased these 29 will be with us, and they will be made very welcome."

Mr and Mrs Owen are giving up organising the exchanges for the Wallingford American Visitors Organising Committee, but they have someone ready to take over the reins.

Mrs Owen added: "We have all made firm friends from these visits."

The Americans, who arrive on July 26, will be given a civic reception the following day, and an official dinner on August 1.

They will again bring a Loving Cup with them -- a copy of the historic Loving Cup owned by the town council and used in town ceremonies.

"During their stay they will visit Bath, Salisbury, Nottingham and London with a tour of Parliament.