Rishi Sunak backs calls for Nottingham knife rampage victim Grace O’Malley-Kumar to be awarded George Cross
RISHI Sunak has backed calls for Nottingham knife rampage victim Grace O’Malley-Kumar to be awarded a George Cross.
The Prime Minister said he would support recognition for her bravery in trying to save university pal Barney Webber.
His spokesman said: “He’d pay tribute to the bravery that Grace demonstrated whilst 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.”
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.
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’s parents, Emma and Dave, said they were right behind calls for Grace to be decorated with the highest civilian honour for courage.
They added: “Grace is a hero. It breaks my heart that two such beautiful souls were so cruelly taken.
“Barney didn’t stand a chance against the ambush from the monster that is Valdo Calocane.
“However, Grace did have the chance to run. Had she done so, she may very well still be alive today. But she chose not to.
“In the moment, she came to her friend’s aid and stayed to fight. For that she will always hold a very special place in the heart of our family.”
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.”
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.”
