Grace O’Malley-Kumar Deserves the George Cross for Heroism and Bravery
RISHI Sunak has backed calls for Nottingham knife rampage victim Grace O’Malley-Kumar to be awarded a George Cross.
Rishi Sunak Supports Grace O’Malley-Kumar for George Cross
The Prime Minister said he would support recognition for her bravery in trying to save university pal Barney Webber.
Barney Webber Saved by Grace during Nottingham Attack
His spokesman said: “He’d pay tribute to the bravery that Grace demonstrated whilst faced with perilous and terrifying circumstances.
Barney Webber and Grace O’Malley-Kumar Tragic Incident
“Decisions around the George Cross are made by an independent committee to review, and final decisions are then made by His Majesty the King.
“But, of course, the Prime Minister would support those nominations. The leadership example she provided in that tragic circumstance was commendable and the PM would get behind that campaign.”
Grace O’Malley-Kumar’s Heroic Act During Nottingham Knife Attack
Grace and Barney, both 19, were stabbed to death by Valdo Calocane in June 2023.
As he cut down her friend, England under-18 hockey star Grace tried to fight him off.
Barney Webber’s Parents Support Grace for George Cross
She battled him for 30 seconds before she, too, was knifed to death. Calocane then went on to kill school caretaker Ian Coates, 65, and injure three others.
At his trial, the judge singled out Grace for her “incredible bravery.”
Barney Webber’s Courage in Nottingham Knife Attack
Barney’s parents, Emma and Dave, said they were right behind calls for Grace to be decorated with the highest civilian honour for courage.
Support for Grace O’Malley-Kumar for George Cross
His spokesman said: “He’d pay tribute to the bravery that Grace demonstrated while faced with perilous and terrifying circumstances.
Decisions around the George Cross are made by an independent committee to review, and final decisions are then made by His Majesty the King.
“But, of course, the Prime Minister would support those nominations. The leadership example she provided in that tragic circumstance was commendable and the PM would get behind that campaign.”
The Campaign for Grace to Receive the George Cross
Others to back the campaign for Grace to get the gong include Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, who said: “Grace showed a courage that has touched the hearts of millions across this nation.
“And, by all accounts, this was who she was in every walk of her life. It would be a fitting tribute and allow her memory to endure.”
The Support for Grace O’Malley-Kumar
Brendan Clarke-Smith — MP for Bassetlaw, Nottingham — his predecessor Lord Mann, former Home Secretary Lord Blunkett and crime victims’ campaigner Norman Brennan also gave their backing.
Lisa McDonald, head of Woodford Green Preparatory School, East London, remembered ex-pupil Grace as kind, selfless, and compassionate, saying: “We can think of no one more deserving of this award.”