A JEWELLERY store manager who apprehended a would-be-robber wielding a 'gun' has been recognised for his "brave and courageous" actions.

Simon Mortimer-Ball was one of just a handful of civilians to receive a Chief Constable’s commendation at an awards ceremony on Tuesday, (May 17) celebrating bravery and policing excellence.

Mr Mortimer-Ball was working in the back room of Newcombes@54 jewellers in Cheap Street, Sherborne, last July when John William Fields entered the store wearing a mask and carrying an object resembling a handgun.

The 43-year-old store manager said: "All of a sudden I heard the girl who worked on the counter start screaming.

"It wasn't until he came into the back room that I saw the gun in his hand.

"At that point I jumped up from my chair, grabbed his arm and pushed him up against the wall trying to keep the gun pointed away from us.

"I tried to keep him there for as long as possible but he started biting my hand and I had to let him go."

When Fields was released he tried to make his way back to the front of the store and at this point Mr Mortimer-Ball tackled him and pinned him to the floor.

"I then sat on him until the police arrived," he added.

It wasn't until officers arrived at the scene that Mr Mortimer-Ball became aware that the "gun" was a fake.

"The thing had smashed into loads of pieces because the guy kept hitting me on the head with it," he said.

"It was made of metal and really heavy so we just assumed it was a real gun."

Fields, aged 47, from Dorchester, was jailed for six years after admitting attempted robbery and possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear or violence in September last year.

Speaking to the Echo Mr Mortimer-Ball said he he hopes his story serves an example for others.

"Hopefully people will know that it's okay to stand up to these idiots," he added."

Mr Mortimer-Ball was presented with his honour by the Chief Constable Debbie Simpson and High Sheriff Sir Philip Williams.

Two other members of the public were awarded Crown Court commendations for their bravery which resulted in the arrest of an armed offender who threatened both individuals with a knife at a shop in Southbourne last year.

Together, the two men managed to restrain the offender until the arrival of the police, despite the offender struggling, shouting obscenities, attempting to bite them and making threats to them both.

A total of 26 awards and medals were presented during the ceremony which was held at Cobham Sports and Social Club in Wimborne.

Chief Constable Debbie Simpson said: “These awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise the hard work, professionalism and selflessness that our officers and staff contribute to Dorset Police, as well as the quick thinking and brave actions of members of the general public.

“All individuals are to be commended for their contribution to keeping Dorset safe, often in highly stressful or traumatic situations.”