The Road to London Bridge: How I went from a life of violence to stopping the terror attack Fishmongers’ Hall

by Steve Gallant

'Steve Gallant's exceptional act of courage on London Bridge speaks of both heroism and redemption' - Jon Snow, former anchor of Channel 4 News

This is a story of physical bravery, moral courage, and the power of redemption from the man who led the charge in stopping the terrorist attack at Fishmongers' Hall in November 2019.

From cell fires to violent feuds and gang battles on prison wings, after being sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, what Steve witnessed at HMP Frankland made him change his life forever. After losing everything, he vowed to never use violence again.

In November 2019, Steve's redemptive journey led him to a Learning Together event at Fishmongers' Hall, hosted by his mentor, Jack Merritt, and attended by Saskia Jones. It was here, on his first day out of prison on day release, that Steve was forced to break his vow as he bravely confronted and fought armed-terrorist Usman Khan on London Bridge. Armed just with a narwhal tusk, Steve wrestled and held Khan to the ground while he waited for the police to arrive.

In October 2020 Steve was granted a royal prerogative of mercy in recognition of his actions at London Bridge. In August 2021 he was released from prison and in March 2023 he was awarded a Queen's Gallantry Medal, the final civilian gallantry awards approved by the late Queen.

This is Steve Gallant's powerful and inspiring story of redemption told in full for the first time.

295 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 26, 2023

Reviews

[Paul Lawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extraordinary read. Takes full responsibility for his crime and what he lost from a snap decision. The Journey through the prison system and how he spent his time making sure that he took something positive from the experience inspired and rubbed off on others within and outside of the system. Kept on going even when it looked like others running the system were trying to scupper his chances to move forward. Reading this book has changed some of my feelings towards rehabilitation. Excellent.

[Donna M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was intrigued to purchase this book, from recalling the London Bridge incident and previously working within a criminal justice organisation & charity. The book is read by the author, which I always find makes it more personal. It was very well written and narrated. The account of the journey so far in the authors life is truly thought-provoking and should be consumed by those setting offender management policies and processes. It's so good to see that people do change their lives after such terrible events. It should give hope and inspiration to others. It's certainly aroused my thoughts around overcoming adversities.

[Dave B · Rating 5 out of 5]

A superb book which details the authors early life of crime, ending with his conviction for murder. The book the catalogues how the prison system has been swamped by Muslim gangs who operate criminally behind bars and then onto the heroism he displayed to undoubtedly stop further deaths at the hands of a Islamic terrorist. The book details that prison can lead to a positive outcome, and although he can never be forgiven for the death of another, he must be commended for the route he has chosen since.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

From taking you through different stages of his life and how he was sentenced Steve took accountability for his actions and tried to make his life better and explained how he came to be at Fishmongers Hall that day. I feel that even though he was sentenced for murder and rightfully so, I feel disgusted about the way he was treated after the terror attack when helping others and having to break his own no violence rule through no fault of his own to stop other people from getting hurt or killed. A great read

[Mo · Rating 4 out of 5]

An honest story of how a boy from a dysfunctional background got in to trouble and then his journey to lift himself out of the negative future so many boys like him find themselves taking. Even more concerning is just how broken and stacked against men like Steve our justice system is. I do hope he writes more books, he is a very talented writer.

[Sharon Crowley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book in all and was happy to hear how Steve turned his life around for the better. My mind finds it hard to understand the legal side of things so found those parts less interesting which is why I gave four stars. But that’s my issue, not the authors.

[Vicky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational. Should be required reading for anyone involved with prison policy making and the justice system. An extremely thought provoking and well written book.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

If there was anybody who was on the fence about whether reform is possible … this is the book for you. Steve I commend you.

[Martin Sharp · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting read with many thought-provoking ideas on prisoner rehabilitation. Undoubtedly a reformed character, this is a recommended read

[Jenene Nicholson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good nearly a 5 star if not for o e chapter. I nice to read a book about good away from violence and making a better life. Hitting bottom and rebuild the life person wants

[Hayley Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best book I’ve ever read!!! Had me gripped from start to finish! Well done Steve Gallant