The tales of two traders - and their public spiritedness - were outlined in courts last week.

In one case newsagent Tony Earnshaw showed backbone when he foiled a suspected armed robber. Mr Earnshaw, 63, picked up a steel ruler, left by a customer, when he believed he was being threatened with a gun.

The would-be robber fled the shop but was held by two passers-by, who took him back into the shop.

The passers-by, Paul Bennett and Paul Stewart, were each given £150 for their public-spirited actions.

In another case Postmaster James Bailey was given a token £200 award for his vigilance which led to a major benefit scam investigation and three men being jailed.

The whole conspiracy had netted £170,000 and would have been much more had it not been for Mr Bailey's actions.

He decided on a course of action which led to him pursuing the man and following his car until police arrived.

It is reassuring to know that people like those involved in the cases are prepared to stand up and be counted and not walk away.

The thanks of those who live in this district should be added to those of the Judges. Well done.

A further tribute to their courage could be paid by those who saw a man having his face smashed by a knuckleduster, because he refused to shoplift for a gang from a supermarket.

This dreadful incident took place on a busy Saturday afternoon. The police say the chances of this assault going unnoticed are slim.

In many ways it is hard to believe that anyone who saw this incident did not contact the police.

Join the fabulous foursome and call the police. If you don't want to use their number call Crimestoppers. Recent events such as the campaign against drug dealers show that calls result in positive action.