Robbed army veteran receives support from PM & Ryan Giggs after Remembrance Sunday attack

December 4, 2014
Posted by Steven Tan | Source from The Telegraph and Argus
PRIME Minister David Cameron has sent a strong letter of support to an army veteran robbed of his treasured medals by thugs on his way to a Remembrance Sunday service.
 
George Gill, of Keighley, also lost his beret and cap badge, as well as the two medals awarded for serving in Northern Ireland and Cyprus which he wore over his heart.
 
Mr Gill, 69, was an infantryman with the Duke of Wellington's Regiment for 18 years and said he was overwhelmed by the public response he has received since the attack.
 
He said the highlights were letters of support from Prime Minister David Cameron, and former international footballer Ryan Giggs, who is now assistant manager at Mr Gill's favourite team, Manchester United.
 
Mr Cameron's letter states he hopes Mr Gill is recovering from his "terrible shock."
 
It continues: "I know, that like me, every right thinking person will have been sickened by the appalling actions of your attackers.
 
"For this to have happened on the day we reflect on those we lost in defence of our freedom and values is even more inexcusable," Mr Cameron wrote.
 
He then referred to the significance of the First World War centenary before adding: "I am sure that many people will want to join me in thanking you for your service to this country."
 
Ryan Giggs wrote to lifelong Man Utd supporter and season ticket holder Mr Gill on behalf of the players and club, thanking him for his loyalty over the years.
 
"We're all thinking of you and hoping you'll make a speedy recovery.
 
"Take care of yourself," Giggs wrote.
 
Mr Gill, who also received a personal note from Keighley MP Kris Hopkins, said: "I was quite chuffed about the Prime Minister and Ryan Giggs taking the time to send me a letter.
 
"So many people have stopped me in the street asking if I'm alright, so that's everyone right up to the Prime Minister.
 
"I want to thank everyone who has got in touch with me for their warmth and kind words."
 
Mr Gill's nephew is currently tracing new versions of the medals he lost during the attack and he has already been donated new version of his regimental cap badge.
 
But he still hopes the originals will be recovered by police.
 
Recalling his service during some of the bloodiest years of the Ulster conflict, he said: "I lost comrades in Northern Ireland and I still remember the faces of the lads we lost.
 
"Those medals mean a lot to me. I'm not looking for revenge or for someone to be locked up, but I do want my medals back.
 
"If anyone can tell me where they are I'd be over the moon."
 
Following the assault, West Yorkshire Police put out an appeal for information from anyone who saw a group of Asian youths acting suspiciously in the park at around the time of the incident. People can call Bradford District CID on 101, or 0800 555111 to contact Crime Stoppers.
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