Passengers who foiled France train attack receive top honour

Three Americans and a British grandfather who foiled a suspected terror attack on a high-speed train have received France's highest honour.

French President Francois Hollande awarded British IT consultant Chris Norman, Spencer Stone, Alek Skarlatos, and Anthony Sadler with the Legion d'honneur at a ceremony at the Elysee Palace.

Mr Hollande said the men had showed "that faced with terror, we have the power to resist. You also gave a lesson in courage, in will, and thus in hope".

Between them, the four managed to subdue suspected jihadist Ayoub El-Khazzani, 26, after spotting him loading an assault rifle on the train travelling from Amsterdam to Paris on Friday.

Anti-terror police are continuing to question El-Khazzani.

Mr Hollande said the men's actions had prevented "veritable carnage".

Francois Hollande (L) shakes hands with Spencer Stone. Credit: Reuters
Hollande hailed the bravery of the four men. Credit: Reuters
The Americans pose outside the palace ahead of the ceremony. Credit: Reuters

The passengers have told how they worked together to tackle the gunman.

Chris Norman

Spencer Stone

Spencer Stone Credit: Reuters

Anthony Sadler

Anthony Sadler Credit: Reuters

Anthony Sadler said his friend Spencer Stone had shown great bravery in stopping the shooter.

Alek Skarlatos

Alek Skarlatos Credit: Reuters