Grateful war protesters gathered outside the French and German Consulates yesterday to thank those governments for their continued aversion to a potential war in Iraq.

Friends Stacey Simmons and Shanell Vaughn decided yesterday - the day the UN Security Council met to discuss the first reports from UN chief weapons inspector Hans Blix - was the day to demonstrate their gratitude to France and Germany.

"I'm opposed to war in general," said Ms Vaughn, "and particularly this one. France and Germany are taking a stand against the war and the US' potential decision to go to war, so we just wanted to show our support of the French and German governments and encourage them to continue to say no. There is always latitude for a peaceful resolution."

Ms Simmons agreed. "War is not the answer," she said. "We are showing singular support for the German and French governments for their willingness to pursue other options. That's all we're saying - you shouldn't be so gung-ho to slaughter."

Ms Simmons said often people do not take a solo stance seriously, perceiving greater validation in numbers. Just as she said so, computer consultant James Birch, who made news on Tuesday with his peaceful protest outside the US Consulate on Middle Road in Devonshire, appeared with his camera.

The trio are not the only ones unafraid to announce their opposition to the war. Hamilton morning commuters were greeted with a banner on East Broadway yesterday morning which read: "Too many Bushes, too many wars, too many dead. Don't attack Iraq!"

Ms Simmons and Ms Vaughn entered the German Consulate to leave one of the two placards there in thanks. Unfortunately the Consul was not there, so the women left the placard in the Appleby, Spurling & Kempe reception area.

They then took their mission down to the French Consulate on Harbour Road, opposite the Newstead Hotel.

No one at the French Consulate was even available to answer the door. However, unabashed, the women left the second placard leaning against the door.

Attempts to reach the French and German Consuls were unsuccessful by The Royal Gazette.