Five people from Greater Manchester were recognised as some of the bravest in the country at a national awards evening this week.
Amongst them were Ronald Smith and Robert Anderson who won a certificate for stepping in to help when an armed robber tried to take money and cigarettes from a corner shop in Pendlebury.
The two men, aged 77 and 71, both live in Swinton. Ronald had gone for his morning paper when a man holding a large knife entered the shop, demanding money and cigarettes. As the offender entered, quick thinking Ronald quietly left the store and held the door closed from the outside so that the offender could not escape. Robert Anderson heard Ronald’s shouts for help and came to help secure the door further until the police arrived, stopping the offender from fleeing.
Assistant Chief Constable at Greater Manchester Police, Garry Shewan, said:
“Congratulations and well done to all of the winners of the awards, a truly inspirational group of people.
“To take a stand against criminals in dangerous situations deserves to be commended and I am honoured to have been able to attend the awards evening last night to recognise these brave people. We work hard to keep our communities safe but residents like this show what a big impact being an active citizen can be.”
The NPCC Police Public Bravery Awards are sponsored by The Goldsmith’s Company and recognise members of the public for actions which support the police in preserving law and order. This year’s award ceremony recognised the acts of 76 people for their courage and bravery.
Honorary Awards Secretary, Chief Constable David Crompton, said: “Every day, somewhere in the United Kingdom, members of the public put themselves in harm’s way in order to help or protect others who are vulnerable or at risk. Policing in the UK has always been performed with the consent of the public and we could not do our job without their assistance. This award ceremony provides the police service with a unique opportunity to thank the public spirited men and women who have gone beyond what would normally be expected and actively engaged in brave, courageous or selfless acts to help protect communities, detect crime or assist the police.”
