Solihull lake tragedy: THOUSANDS sign petition to give boy who tried to save friends the George Cross award - ‘He’s a hero!’

Thousands of people have signed a petition calling for one of the boys who died in the Solihull lake tragedy to be given the George Cross award.

Ten-year-old Jack Johnson, is reported to have been trying to save others who fell into Babbs Mill Lake in Kingshurst, Solihull, near Birmingham.

Siblings Samuel Butler, six, and Finlay Butler, eight, also died along with their cousin Thomas Stewart, 11.

Now, a petition has been set up called “George Cross for young Jack Johnson”.

TRENDING

• 

  Prince William turns up unannounced in surprise royal appearance to leave residents stunned

• 

  Meghan Markle 'working on new projects' as she 'keeps her head down' during Prince Harry storm

• 

  King Charles set to break silence on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle feud as 'plans are being made' for bombshell TV interview

It reads: “On Sunday, 11th December 2022, 10-year old Jack Johnson attempted to rescue some young boys who had fallen through ice in a Solihull lake.

“He did not know them, but gave his life in the attempt to save them.

“Please join this petition for young Jack to be posthumously awarded the George Cross.

“The George Cross is the civilian equivalent of the Victoria Cross, which is awarded to Armed Forces personnel for extreme gallantry.

“Jack Johnson GC. Let’s make it happen.”

The petition has received well over 5,000 signatures, with many sharing their condolences and admiration for Jack's bravery.

Di Featherstone wrote: “I am overwhelmed by the bravery shown by Jack. His family will be heartbroken at such a devastating loss, but so proud of him at the same time. He deserves the greatest accolade! God bless xx”

Jean Day wrote: “Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. Jack was a young boy who died trying to save other young boys from drowning. He gave the ultimate sacrifice, his life. If anyone deserves a medal, this brave young man should be top of the list.”

Emergency services have been taking calls about children walking and playing on ice in the same week that four boys died after being pulled from a frozen lake.

Avon and Somerset Police issued a safety warning on Saturday evening after taking “multiple calls” about children playing on a frozen pond, while Lincolnshire Police urged parents to make sure their children are aware of the dangers.

London Fire Brigade (LFB) said it has received “several” calls over the last few days and warned people to stay off ice.