Bravery award for airoport hero

A CUMBERNAULD man who tackled a terrorist during an attack on Glasgow Airport in 2007 is to receive the Queen's Commendation for Bravery.

Michael Kerr (42), who originally comes from Abronhill, will be one of five civilians who will receive the accolade for their actions later this year. Two police officers will also receive the award.

Denny-based Mr Kerr had just returned from a holiday to Menorca with wife Annette, their twin daughters Rachel and Sophie, plus parents Thomas and Margaret from Cumbernauld.

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Without any regard for his personal safety, he rushed to help a police officer who was in a tussle with a suspect.

Mr Kerr was punched in the face and had his leg fractured in three places.

He then had be led out of harm's way by an airport taxi driver, Alexander McIlveen, who will also receive the award.

First Minister Alex Salmond was among those to praise Mr Kerr and his fellow heroes following the announcement.

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He said: "The immense gratitude and admiration of the nation goes to those who helped avert a major disaster on that day.

"The response to the threat was a remarkable expression of community solidarity.

"It is fitting that those who showed such courage and commitment to public safety should be honoured in this way."

Mr Kerr, a heating engineer, is a former pupil of Our Lady's High School.

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