Calls for George Cross Honours after heroic acts during Huntingdon train attack
There have been multiple calls for both Samir Zitouni and Stephen Crean to receive the George Cross
Last updated 7th Nov 2025
Calls for national honours have poured in for two men hailed as heroes after the knife attack aboard a London North Eastern Railway (LNER) train.
The train crew member seriously injured while trying to protect passengers has been named as Samir Zitouni, 48, known as Sam. He is a customer experience host with LNER, a role that largely involves providing onboard catering, and has worked for the company for more than 20 years.
LNER said Mr Zitouni “did not hesitate as he stepped forward to protect those around him” and has been credited with helping to save multiple lives after passengers came under threat.
He remains in hospital in a stable condition but critically unwell.
His family released a statement, saying: “We are immensely proud of Sam and his courage. The police called him a hero on Saturday evening, but to us — he’s always been a hero.”
LNER managing director David Horne said: “In a moment of crisis, Sam did not hesitate as he stepped forward to protect those around him. His actions were incredibly brave, and we are so proud of him, and of all our colleagues who acted with such courage that evening.”
Also praised for bravery is Stephen Crean, 61, a passenger who defended himself with nothing but his fists when the knifeman approached him.
Crean was returning home on the train following a Nottingham Forest football match when he was caught up in the incident, suffering knife wounds to the head, back and hands.
Political leaders have called for both men to receive honours. Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, said on X: “Samir Zitouni and Stephen Crean are heroes who saved lives. They showed the best of Britain: putting themselves in harm's way to protect others.
"They both deserve the George Cross in recognition of their incredible bravery.”
The Liberal Democrats have tabled a motion in Parliament, led by the South Cambridgeshire MP Pippa Heylings, to award both men the George Cross, the highest honour that can be awarded to civilians:
“Both men’s actions were nothing short of heroic, and they deserve the highest recognition our country can give,” said the party.
Shadow Transport Secretary Richard Holden called for Mr Zitouni to be “considered for recognition through the UK Honours system for acts of selfless and outstanding bravery.”
Downing Street said bravery awards are a matter for the Honours Committee but acknowledged: “It’s very clear that this man’s bravery saved lives and we pay tribute to that.”
A Prime Minister’s official spokesman added: “It’s a matter for the honours system, but I don’t think anyone can doubt the level of bravery and character that this man showed in the moment to defend and protect the lives of innocents.”
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander praised Mr Zitouni’s actions, saying: “His remarkable quick thinking and selfless action saved lives and he has demonstrated bravery beyond measure.”