George Medal awarded to man who stopped hospital bomber

A Yorkshire man who prevented a potential terrorist attack outside St James’ Hospital in Leeds has been awarded the George Medal for bravery, Counter Terrorism Policing announced.

Nathan Newby confronted and restrained Mohammed Farooq in 2023 after noticing his suspicious behaviour. Farooq was later found to be carrying a pressure cooker packed with explosives. Mr Newby talked him down and called police, leading to Farooq’s arrest and the prevention of what police described as a likely deadly attack.

In a statement, Assistant Commissioner for Specialist Operations Laurence Taylor, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing, said Mr Newby’s quick actions showed extraordinary courage. “That day, Mr Newby trusted his instincts and when coming nose to nose with a terrorist, he took actions that bravely prevented a deadly attack,” he said.

Taylor said the case illustrated the vital role the public can play in preventing terrorism, even though such direct intervention is never expected. “We often ask the public to help us in tackling terrorism. Mostly, that means reporting concerns about things they’ve seen or heard,” he said. “But sometimes, it both awfully and incredibly means playing a more physical role.”

He also referred to a recent incident in Crumpsall, Manchester, where worshippers reportedly acted to protect one another during an ongoing investigation into a suspected terrorist attack. “From what we know so far, worshippers in Crumpsall fiercely sought to protect one another that morning. For two men, Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby, that meant they paid the ultimate price,” Taylor said.

“It is never policing’s expectation that the public should be prepared to play this role but when they do, it is vital that we recognise their courage,” he added. “To all those who step, or run, forward, with or without a uniform, thank you.”

The George Medal is one of the UK’s highest civilian honours, awarded for acts of great bravery.