'Have-a-go heroes'

[TeePee]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-12402472

I think it's so fundamentally wrong for a nation to have a derogatory term for a hero. No-one is doubting that this lady was heroic. A few years ago they'd be giving her a medal, but now we have this story in our national news which dares to criticise her? We should be inspired by her! I wish that in a similar situation I'd display as much courage, bravery and all those other traits that are part of being British!

Remember, when seconds count, the police are only minutes away.

[Biscuit]

i don't think it necessarily criticizes her, it think it makes the point which has to be made very clear, these situations can be dangerous and that's what the police are for.
Its very clear about this woman's bravery however imagine the response if the official police statement was 'More people should be vigilent like this woman.' its a dangerous thing to announce to the public.

[jim]

They didn't need to say anything at all, to be fair.

[Rave]

Detective Inspector Ally White said: "We would like to thank all of the members of the public who assisted in the incident.

"However, we would always advise the public to call the police if they witness a crime, rather than risking their own safety by getting involved themselves."

Of course you do mate. Because if more crimes were prevented by members of the public doing the right thing, you'd be out of a job.