PM praises heroes as Smeaton visits Downing Street

JOHN SMEATON, the baggage handler who tackled an alleged terrorist, was hailed a "hero" by Gordon Brown last night when he met the Prime Minister at No 10 Downing Street.

Mr Smeaton, 31, shot to fame after helping police tackle a man who was in a blazing jeep that had been driven into the Glasgow Airport terminal building.

The PM agreed to meet Mr Smeaton, nicknamed "Smeato", to thank him personally after learning he was in London for a television interview.

After showing him around No 10, Mr Brown said: "This is a very brave man and a very courageous man and I think the whole country owes John a debt of gratitude. He is a hero and we are proud of him."

After a short private chat with the Prime Minister, Mr Smeaton said he was "honoured, humbled and bewildered".

His visit took place before the death of terror suspect Kafeel Ahmed was announced.

Mr Smeaton said of his meeting with Mr Brown: "I really can't believe it. I am stunned; you can see the smile across my face. I'm lost for words for once."

Mr Brown also hinted that Mr Smeaton and other members of the public who intervened during the attack could receive honours for their efforts.

He said: "John did not wait to act; he immediately went to help; he put his own life at risk.

"These acts of heroism are already recognised by the people of this country. There will be ways by which we hope we can, as a country, recognise what's been achieved."

The First Minister, Alex Salmond, will host the civilian heroes of the Glasgow incident at an official a reception later this month.