The SAS soldier who saved “dozens of lives” in the Nairobi hotel massacre is in line to receive the George Cross for his “remarkable bravery”.

The trooper was off-duty when he dashed to the scene of intense fighting after Islamist terrorists laid siege to the DusitD2 five-star hotel.

At least 21 people were killed in a drawn-out assault that saw hundreds of civilians trapped in the hotel complex.

A well-placed source said the SAS man - understood to be a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer - will be recommended for one of the highest medals for gallantry and likely the George Cross.

Just two George Medals were awarded last year while the last George Cross was handed out in June 2017 to Dominic Troulan for his bravery in the Westgate Mall terrorist attack, that also took place in Nairobi.

The identity of the SAS soldier is being kept secret in line with Military of Defence protocol not to name members of the Special Forces. The medal will be given secretly and with no fanfare for fear of revealing the soldier’s identity.