London bombings of 2005

On 7 July 2005 four suicide bombers struck London's transport network, killing 52 people and injuring over 770 others.

Three of the blasts happened on London Underground, on or around 8.50am, in the vicinity of Aldgate, Edgware Road and Russell Square stations. The fourth device exploded at 9.47am on a bus that had been diverted via Tavistock Square, close to where BTP’s HQ was at the time. The building became a base for the walking wounded to assemble in.

BTP officers and staff from across the organisation worked tirelessly on the day of the bombings and in the days, weeks and months that followed to deal with the tragic consequences of these acts and to help ensure safety on the rail way.

Many colleagues were honoured for their extraordinary efforts during what was described as one of the biggest challenges faced by the police service in post-war Britain. The circumstances were complex, difficult and dangerous, however BTP officers carried out their vital and specialist roles - including initial rescue, body recovery, search and mortuary duties, as well as supporting the extensive coroner’s inquiry which followed. They showed exceptional courage and professionalism during this critical time. 

They were supported by non-operational colleagues who also went above and beyond to support the frontline professionally and sensitively, whilst helping to get the transport network in London restored quickly, efficiently and safely following the attacks.

Chief Constable Paul Crowther said: “The heroic efforts of BTP personnel and all agencies who responded to the events of 7 July 2005 will never be forgotten and the memories of what happened on that day remain firmly in our minds. 

“During the most difficult circumstances, BTP provided an absolutely outstanding level of service.

“A lot of things have changed since 7/7, both in how we monitor threats and how we respond when they are apparent.

“We now have comprehensive communications system which allows us to link in with Transport for London and other agencies much more efficiently.

“We have far greater access to CCTV, with more widespread coverage than ten years ago, and we use regular training exercises to test our response to threats.

“All of these changes are designed to help us ensure this terrible tragedy never happens again.”

Honouring 7/7 heroes

To honour the officers, support staff, members of the public and train operating company staff who went the extra mile following the attacks, BTP held two special commendation ceremonies in December 2005 and April 2006.

Among the 173 people who were honoured at the ceremonies were officers involved in the initial rescue, body recovery, search and mortuary duties.

Speaking at the first ceremony, Secretary of State for Transport Alistair Darling told officers: "I hope you realise that right around the world, there was tremendous admiration. All of you can take pride in what you have done. Getting London back to work the next day was a tribute to your efforts."

Ian Johnston, BTP's Chief Constable at the time of the bombings, said: "(The bombings) called for an unprecedented response from all the emergency services. Without exception, that response was truly magnificent and BTP played a key part in it.

"This was a complex, difficult and dangerous major incident across a number of sites, requiring the highest levels of courage, professionalism and expertise. It was probably the biggest challenge faced by the police service in post-war Britain.

"For those of us who were not on the front line, we can only imagine the horrors that you faced, and the surroundings in which you worked so professionally."

Commendations