Thousands back call for Babbs Mill Boy Jack Johnson to get George Cross for Solihull lake tragedy bravery

Thousands have signed a petition calling for Babbs Mill Boy Jack Johnson to be posthumously awarded the George Cross.

Jack, aged 10, attempted to rescue brothers Samuel and Finaly Butler, aged six and eight, and their cousin Thomas Stewart, aged 11, as they fell through ice at Babbs Mill Lake in Kingshurst, Solihull last Sunday (December 11).

Sadly all four boys died last week. More than 5,300 had signed the petition this morning (December 19). If it reaches 7,500 organisers expect more chances of a response from the government, which is responsible for handing out a George Cross - the highest award for non-operational bravery.

The petition has been set up by Robert Lofthouse, who said: “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. Let’s make it happen.

Hundreds attended a candlelit vigil to remember the boys and support their families on Saturday evening. One attendee told BirminghamWorld that more events are being planned. Chelsea said: “The community is very close and we communicate very well. This vigil won’t be the only thing we do.”

Flowers and toys including from Aston Villa and Birmingham City football clubs have been left at the nature reserve. The Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition have also paid tribute to the Babbs Mill  Boys in Parliament. Solihull Council has erected a fence around the lake where the boys fell in.

Kinghurst’s St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School, where Jack attended, said Jack "died living out our school motto of actions speak louder than words".

To sign the petition visit: Petition for Babbs Mill Boy Jack Johnson to get a George Cross