A police officer was last night voted the bravest in the region after he tackled a violent armed raider.
Robert Matthews, of West Mercia Police, was recognised at the 10th annual Police Bravery Awards in London.
The 41- year- old was named the bravest policeman in the Midlands for apprehending an armed robber who had held up staff and revellers at a nightclub in Telford.
Three raiders, including Sergeant Matthews' assailant, had threatened members of Hadley United Services Club with a shotgun and knives at about 11.30pm on July 23.
The married father-ofthree was chasing a suspect, who ran into a nearby factory, when he was repeatedly kicked in the head, face and upper body by the raider. The offender had scaled a pile of pallets in a bid to escape, but when they collapsed he continued to lash out but was restrained by Sgt Matthews. Despite the battering, he managed to detain the suspect until back-up arrived.
Sgt Matthews received his award during a glittering ceremony at The Dorchester Hotel, in the presence of Home Secretary Charles Clarke.
Beforehand he had joined 59 other nominees from forces across England and Wales at 10 Downing Street, where he met the Prime Minister
The awards ceremony recognises officers who put themselves at risk of death or serious harm performing their duties.
