Airport News

Glasgow Airport hero 'set to pull out of election'

Wed, 14 Oct, 2009

Glasgow Airport hero John Smeaton, who helped foil a terrorist attack on the airport in 2007, is set to stand down from his by-election campaign, according to media reports.

Mr Smeaton was working as a baggage handler at Glasgow Airport when he helped a police officer tackle two suicide bombers.

The footage of his actions was broadcast on the internet and a tribute website was set up in his honour.

Last month, he announced he was to stand as an independent candidate in the Glasgow North-East by-election.

But the Daily Record has said the former Glasgow Airport worker intends to quit the race due to concerns over his health.

Mr Smeaton suffers from severe asthma and a source told the paper: "His doctor is worried the campaign might be too much and John will stand down on health grounds."

The baggage handler left his job at Glasgow Airport in June 2008.


Joe Evans

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