A 61-year-old man hailed as a hero for defending fellow passengers during a mass stabbing on a train has been gifted a dream holiday by British Airways, after budget airline Ryanair refused to refund his missed flight.
A Heroic Intervention and Severe Injuries
Stephen Crean was travelling on a London North Eastern Railway (LNER) service from Doncaster to London King's Cross on November 1 when a violent attack unfolded. The incident, which left ten people injured, saw Mr Crean intervene with nothing but his fists to protect others. Tragically, he was stabbed seven times during his brave act.
Mr Crean was returning from watching his team, Nottingham Forest, play against Manchester United. He had been due to fly to Austria on November 5 with Ryanair to watch Forest take on Sturm Graz in the Europa League the following day. However, the severe injuries he sustained in the attack made it impossible for him to travel.
Ryanair's Refusal and a Rival's Generous Response
Upon realising he could not make the trip, Mr Crean contacted Ryanair to request a refund for his ticket. The budget airline denied his request, stating that their fares are non-refundable. A Ryanair spokesperson advised that he should have taken out travel insurance to cover such circumstances.
Fortunately, the story did not end there. British Airways stepped in with a remarkable gesture, offering the lifelong football fan two business class return tickets to Porto. This will allow him to watch Nottingham Forest play against Sporting Braga on January 22. The airline also booked a two-night stay for him at a five-star hotel.
Overwhelming Gratitude and Fan Outrage
Calum Laming, British Airways' Chief Customer Officer, praised Mr Crean, saying his actions were heroic and that he put the safety of others ahead of his own. The airline expressed delight at being able to recognise his remarkable courage.
Nottingham Forest have also supported their fan by gifting him tickets for the upcoming match in Portugal. Mr Crean expressed his overwhelming gratitude for the kindness he has received since the incident, stating he cannot wait to get on the plane to watch 'the Reds'.
The news of Ryanair's initial refusal sparked anger among Nottingham Forest supporters, with some calling for a boycott of the airline. Fans took to social media to condemn the decision, labelling it 'disgusting' given the context of Mr Crean's bravery.
