Shopper given police award after tackling man armed with meat clever to thwart attempted robbery

James Morgan, from Lowton, has been given an award from the police for his heroics at Global Newsagents on Newton Road.

The 31-year-old called in to buy groceries when Billy Moore tried to hold up the shop.

Fearing for the shopkeeper's safety and putting his own wellbeing to one side, James launched himself at the armed raider and took him to the floor.

James then hit Moore, 25, to force him to let go of the meat cleaver and kept him on the floor until police arrived.

Detective sergeant David Johnston, from Greater Manchester Police, said: “James acted in a selfless and brave manner to help the shopkeeper.

"He demonstrated all the key traits of an honourable member of the community and tackled an armed and dangerous criminal.

“His actions will undoubtedly make our area a safer place to live and it is people like James that make our community great.”

DS Johnson nominated James for the Chief Constable’s Citizens Commendation for the remarkable act of bravery on January 21.

James, the son of a former police officer, was presented with the award in a ceremony at GMP’s Hough End complex on Wednesday.

He said: “It is nice to be recognised for what I have done but it is not something you think about.

“For me it was all very much about what was happening at the time.

"When I think back to the day, I did what I did because I didn’t want someone attacking my shop.

"At the end of the day this (the shopkeeper) is someone who is trying to earn an honest wage with his own business.”

Moore, of no fixed abode, has since been sentenced to 40 months in prison after being convicted of attempted robbery and possession of a bladed weapon.

GMP's deputy chief constable Ian Pilling said: “James’ actions prevented a dangerous offender from committing further crime and displayed the power of community spirit.

“His conduct proves that residents living in our borough will not stand by and allow criminality to take place.”