Tragic Twin Towers widow Deena Gilbey hopes to plant an apple orchard at her New Jersey home in memory of husband Paul.

Support for Deena - friend Kate Pagram. Picture: TERENCE BUNCH 7DKFC2

Paul, who moved from Hockley to New Jersey with Deena eight years ago, was killed on the 84th floor of the World Trade Centre tower during the second plane strike.

The tree garden, at her house in Chatham Township, would serve as a poignant tribute for her children - Maxwell, seven, and Mason, just three - who have struggled to come to terms with the tragedy.

Her friend Kate Pagram, who lives in Hall Crescent, Hadleigh, said: "Paul's body was never found, so there was no burial. Deena would really like to have a memorial for Paul.

"She is planning to plant an apple orchard in her back garden, which is something she and Paul always wanted to do. The idea is that the trees will grow alongside her boys."

However, in a bitter twist, Deena may not be able to stay in the US long enough to see the trees grow - because she could be deported on the anniversary of her husband's death.

Paul, 39, a worker for the firm Eurobrokers, was hailed a hero after helping women and disabled workers into lifts moments before the World Trade Centre collapsed.

Anyone who wants to support Deana in her campaign to stay in the US is asked to visit www.noncitizenwtcwidows.com

Published Wednesday, February 20, 2002