The First Ever Royal Kidnap Attempt: A Hero's Story

💂James Beaton, a police inspector, thwarted the first ever royal kidnap attempt and received the George Cross for his bravery.

👑Princess Anne remained calm and collected during the attack, showing exceptional courage.

🔫James Beaton fired at the attacker but missed, and the gun subsequently jammed.

🌍The incident led to significant changes in royalty protection, with better guns and ammunition, increased training, and a more selective recruitment process.

🏅James Beaton was awarded the George Cross for his outstanding bravery.

What happened in the first ever royal kidnap attempt?

—In the first ever royal kidnap attempt, a white car pulled in front of the royal car. The driver, Ian Ball, approached the royal car and shot James Beaton, the protection officer, in the chest. Beaton returned fire but missed, and his gun jammed. Ball then pointed his gun at Princess Anne and ordered Beaton to drop his gun.

How did James Beaton react during the attack?

—James Beaton acted bravely during the attack. He tried to fire back at the attacker, but his gun jammed. Despite being shot three times, Beaton continued to defend Princess Anne until other officers overpowered the attacker.

How did Princess Anne respond during the attack?

—Princess Anne remained calm and collected during the attack. Despite the danger, she showed exceptional courage and supported James Beaton.

What changes were made in royalty protection after the incident?

—The incident led to significant changes in royalty protection. Better guns and ammunition were provided, and there was an increase in training for protection officers. The recruitment process also became more selective.

What recognition did James Beaton receive for his bravery?

—James Beaton received the George Cross for his outstanding bravery during the attack. This award is one of the highest honors for bravery in the United Kingdom.

00:03Police have been checking the royal car following a kidnap attempt on Princess Anne.

00:11The kidnappers demanded a £3 million ransom in a bizarre ransom note.

00:23James Beaton, the protection officer, describes the attack and his injuries.

01:20Despite being shot three times, James Beaton continued to defend Princess Anne.

02:22James Beaton received the George Cross for his outstanding bravery.

02:28Princess Anne remained calm and collected during the attack.

03:19The incident led to significant changes in royalty protection, with better guns and increased training.

03:22James Beaton reflects on the changes in royalty protection since the incident.