On 22 May after Fusilier Lee Rigby was killed in an horrific attack in Woolwich, three women stepped forward, confronted the attackers and went to his aid.

Amanda Donnelly and her daughter Gemini Donnelly-Martin comforted the soldier as he lay on the ground and Ingrid Loyau-Kennett calmly spoke to the attackers until police arrived. The fact that no other bystander was hurt in the incident is testament to the courageous actions of these women.

As the Rector of Woolwich I saw how the tragedy hit this community hard, but the actions of Gemma, Amanda and Ingrid has been an inspiration to all of us. Instead of running away when they saw danger they went straight to the heart of it. 

As the people of Woolwich comes to terms with what happened here -- coming together to honour the heroines of that day will send a positive message of unity and peace.

The George Medal can be awarded to civilians for acts of great bravery. This is one of those acts. Please sign the petition to ask the MOD to award Ingrid, Gemini and Amanda the George Medal.