Father and son commended for knife attack bravery

Thomas and Paul Hamshaw were preparing to go to work at 7am on Monday August 17, 2009, when Thomas, then aged 17, and Paul, then 41, heard the woman’s cries for help.

The pensioner, who lived in sheltered accommodation at Dinnington, near Rotherham, had heard a noise in her kitchen and found a man wearing a balaclava, holding a knife.

A struggle took place with the offender and the pensioner was thrown against the fridge and threatened. She fought with the man and received a deep cut to her thumb that later needed surgery.

When the pair confronted the raider they were also threatened with the knife but they gave chase after the offender ran away and recovered the handbag he had stolen.

Enquiries were made in the area which led to the arrest of a suspect a few days later.

The man denied any involvement in the offence but was later picked out by Thomas Hamshaw during an identification parade.

He was charged with robbery and possession of an offensive weapon and received an eight and a half-year prison sentence.

Mr Hughes, said: “While some young men are often criticised for their behaviour, this incident shows that others are fine, decent and care for their neighbours.

“Thomas’s courage and his father’s support are worthy of recognition. These men are fine examples to us all.”