Special award for Barry have-a-go hero Jake

Twenty-five-year-old Jake Hudson sprang into action at the Holton Road branch of Barclays Bank, when he saw the manager being assaulted by a man armed with a knife.

The Barry & District News reported, in January 2008, how the community-spirited customer immediately grabbed a chair and hurled it at the robber to throw him off balance, before wrestling him to the ground and pinning him down until police arrived.

The Royal Humane Society and Provincial Police Awards have now honoured Jake with a Silver Award, which reads: "The incident was observed by a customer, Mr Jake Hudson, who displayed immense courage in the face of danger by intervening during such a serious incident.

"Mr Hudson tackled the offender and managed to disarm him during a violent struggle which continued until police arrived.

"Mr Hudson’s actions during this incident displayed commendable courage in the face of imminent danger.

"He placed the protection of the lives of others over his regard for his own personal safety.

"Mr Hudson saw a violent and serious crime occur and took a decision to make a stand.

"Mr Hudson’s actions are worthy of high recognition."

Following the incident, Jake told the Barry & District News: "I didn’t think – it was a natural reaction."

Detective Inspector Huw Thomas of Barry CID, added: "Jake Hudson’s actions in disarming and seizing the assailant are to be commended.

"This was indeed an act of bravery.

"However, any member of the public, in the unlikely event of finding themselves in a similar situation, should be very cautious about intervening where they may put themselves at risk.

"It is always a difficult call to make."

The Provincial Police Awards were established in 1965 and are the only bravery awards to be presented to members of the public by chief police officers.

The awards recognise outstanding acts of bravery or meritorious devotion to civic duty in support of the police and contributing to the maintenance of law and order.