Robber foiled by hero

Derby Crown Court heard how Scott Riddell, 31, of Nottingham Road, Alfreton, grabbed his 26-year-old victim as she was walking along Church Street, in Ripley, but he was stopped from stealing her phone by a brave man.

Police said the man, named by the court as Matthew Claridge, had intervened and Riddell ran away.

The court praised Mr Claridge and awarded him £1,000 for showing exceptional courage.

Mr Claridge intervened when he had no idea whether the offender was armed or not, according to the court, and he continued to intervene until the police arrived.

The court stated Mr Claridge is to be commended for his “braveness and outstanding public spiritedness”.

Riddell pleaded guilty to the attempted robbery which happened about 10.15pm, on Friday, April 4.

He also pleaded guilty to using violence to secure an entry at a house on Padley Close, Ripley, during the same day.

Derbyshire Constabulary originally reported in witness appeals at the time that a 26-year-old woman had been walking along Church Street in the town centre about 10.15pm, on Friday, April 4, when a man grabbed her and attempted to steal her mobile phone.

Police told how a member of the public had intervened and the offender ran away.

At around 11pm on the same day, police said in the same report that a man had knocked on the door of a house on Padley Close and as the occupant opened the door the man tried to force his way in.

Riddell was given a 90 month custodial sentence on Thursday, May 15.

He was also ordered to pay a £120 victim surcharge.

Those with information about crimes can call police on 101 or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.