Blue Cross remembers 7/7 and the animals who helped

Blue Cross is today remembering the victims of the 7 July 2005 terrorist attack on London’s transport network, and the animals who helped the injured in the aftermath.

Springer spaniel Jake, a Metropolitan Police explosives dog, was awarded the Blue Cross Medal after displaying heroism in the wake of the tube and bus bombings, in which 52 people died and more than 700 were injured.

Jake cleared the route for paramedics to reach the wounded at the scene of the Tavistock Square bus bombing and then walked along the tube tunnel at King's Cross, allowing people to access medical treatment.

Jake's actions that day saved the lives of many people and in 2007 a panel of judges awarded him the Blue Cross Medal for coming to the aid of human life.

Jake's owner, PC Crawford, said at the time: "We are delighted that Jake has won the Medal.

“Jake is a hardworking dog who performed brilliantly on the day of the bombings.

“Animals help all our lives, and it's great that Blue Cross is honouring their contribution. Jake will wear his Medal with pride."

Jake was awarded his Medal by actress Felicity Kendal. She said: “Jake was a very brave dog and is a deserving winner of the Medal.”

A Blue Cross Medal was also awarded posthumously to service dog Chester for heroism shown on that day. Together with his handler PC Glen Hesketh, they entered the bus in Tavistock Square to search for a suspected secondary device and assist casualties. This act of tremendous courage put the lives of Chester and his handler at risk, but undoubtedly helped to save the lives of many. Blue Cross are proud to honour such bravery.