MPs want train attack heroes to get George Cross

A motion has been submitted for Samir Zitouni and Stephen Crean to be awarded the George Cross

Three MPs has called for two men who confronted a man carrying a knife during an attack on a train to be awarded the George Cross.

Pippa Heylings, South Cambridgeshire's Liberal Democrat MP, submitted an Early Day Motion to Parliament which called for Samir Zitouni and Stephen Crean to be given the medal that recognises civilians who display bravery in the face of danger.

Mr Zitouni, an LNER worker onboard the Doncaster to London train, was critically injured during the attack on Saturday after trying to help passengers.

Mr Crean has been hailed a hero after he confronted the train attacker and tried to block him from getting into the buffet car, where people were hiding.

The Early Day Motion has been supported by two other Cambridgeshire Liberal Democrat MPs, Charlotte Cane and Ian Sollom, and their party leader Ed Davey.

The George Cross is the highest honour that can be awarded to civilians.

LNER described the actions of their employee Samir Zitouni as "incredibly brave"

Early Day Motions are a parliamentary process whereby MPs can call for something to be debated in the House of Commons.

The motion, however, does not have the power to award the honour.

A recommendation has to be made by the George Cross Committee, which is then submitted through the prime minister to King Charles III.

Stephen Crean said the attacker shouted at him, "Do you want to die?"

In a joint statement the Cambridgeshire MPs said: "The bravery shown by Samir Zitouni and Stephen Crean undoubtedly saved lives.

"Their bravery and disregard for their own safety in putting others first represents the very best of Britain.

"Mr Zitouni placed himself in harm's way to protect passengers, sustaining serious injuries in the process, while Mr Crean confronted the attacker to give others time to reach safety.

"Both men's actions were nothing short of heroic, and they deserve the highest recognition our country can give.

"We would also like to pay tribute to the response of the train driver, emergency services, and the incredible staff at Addenbrooke's Hospital, who continued Samir's and Stephen's example of selflessness and care to ensure the safety and recovery of all those affected."

Anthony Williams, 32, of no fixed abode, was charged with 10 counts of attempted murder relating to the train stabbing and a count of attempted murder in connection with an attack in London.

He is due to appear at Cambridge Crown Court on 1 December.