‘Lion of London Bridge’ Roy Larner says he is still haunted by last year’s terror attack and has not regained full use of one of his arms.
The 48 year old was hailed a hero and earned the title ‘the Lion of London Bridge’ after shouting ‘F**k you, I’m Millwall’ while fighting off three terrorists wielding knives in Borough Market.
The Lions fan was stabbed in the head, arms, back and front after taking on the attackers unarmed in the Black & Blue bar and restaurant on June 3 last year.
Speaking to the News after the anniversary of the terror attack on Sunday, Mr Larner said it “has been very hard” and that he still gets anxious in crowded places and is unable to work.
“All these things take time I suppose and it will take time for me to get back to normal,” said the father of one.
Read more:
- Swedish brewery names beer ‘F*** You, I’m Millwall’ in tribute to Lions fan
- Millwall fans caught up in London Bridge attack to be honoured during match
- Calls for Millwall fan stabbed while fighting off London Bridge attackers to be awarded George Cross
- Hero Millwall fan hopes to meet police officers who rushed him to hospital after terror attack
“Those dark winter months after the attack were really hard for me but I’m getting counselling every fortnight now and that’s helpful.
“It’s been very hard – even the football wasn’t enjoyable for me because the crowds were getting bigger and it’s the same when I go out to the pub now and it’s a bit noisy so I go somewhere quieter.
“The thunder and lightning storms last week brought back memories of the gunfire.”
Mr Larner, who is currently staying with friends outside of London, was inundated with job offers when he came out of hospital last year but he says he has been set back by his injuries.
“I won’t be able to work now because my arm is just working at 50 per cent,” he said.
“The stitches on my neck and hands have healed quite nicely.”
The Lions fan said he had “a few tears in my eyes” during a remembrance service at Southwark Cathedral on Sunday.
“The families of the eight victims must have been going through hell this last year,” he said. “At least I’m still here.
“I just hope this never happens to anyone else anywhere.”