Brit hero who punched crocodile in face to avoid wasting twin sister thrilled with award

A heroic backpacker who punched a 10ft crocodile in the face to save her twin’s life has been awarded a medal for her bravery.

The 12.5st reptile had pulled Melissa Laurie, 31, under in a death roll when Georgia launched her desperate attack. And now her courage has been recognised by the King in his first Civilian Gallantry List. Shocked Georgia said: “I feel really privileged, it’s a silver lining to come out of a terrible ordeal.

“What’s made this story so incredible is Melissa’s unwavering bravery throughout it all. She was so strong during it. I don’t think I’d be here without her. She really gave me the strength to keep fighting.”

In June 2021, Georgia, from Sandhurst, Berks, zookeeper Melissa and other backpackers entered Manialtepec Lagoon, in Oaxaca, Mexico, after the tour guide, who was ­unlicensed, said it was safe. Melissa saw the croc’s head rise out of the water 50ft away.

The panicked group swam towards the mangroves. Just as Melissa seemed to reach safety, the croc grabbed her hand and pulled her under. She survived with a broken wrist, abdominal puncture wounds and leg and foot ­injuries. Georgia said: “It sound like a horror movie, but it’s a part of the tapestry of our life.”

Unarmed PC Zach Printer, who confronted a gunman in Keyham, Devon, in August 2021, will also get the King’s medal. Other recipients include PC Steven Denniss, stabbed in the leg while apprehending a double murder suspect in Louth, Lincs, in June 2021.