A BRAVE dispensing optician has been recognised for his heroic efforts after helping detain armed robbers during an attempted smash and grab on a Windsor jewellery store.

Kerrin Walker, the franchise director of Vision Express, Windsor, heard a commotion outside in September 2016.

Four armed men on motorbikes were attacking the jewellers Robert Gatward, in King Edward Court opposite the Vision Express store with sledgehammers, axes and knives - attempting to break the window of a display containing watches worth an estimated £500,000.

As staff from the jewellery store confronted the group Mr Walker, 43, ran outside to help. He managed to pin down one of the attackers alongside the staff and a fellow member of the public; disarming and detaining him before the arrival of the police.

Mr Walker, who is married to Emma and dad to daughter Chloe, 3, and son Flynn, 1, was presented a silver Police Public Bravery Award in London this month, alongside passer-by Mark Morley who was stabbed while trying to help and jewellery staff Gary Reeves and Nicholas Elliott. The accolade recognises acts of bravery performed by members of the public across the UK.

Mr Walker said: “Vision Express Windsor has been in the town centre for 13 years and it has a real community feel. I always say that it takes me twice as long to walk down the road, as I always bump into customers and people I know.

“That’s why I got involved in the incident – it’s my town and I’m protective of it. I reacted as quickly as I could when I saw what was happening, I just wanted to help.

“To be recognised for my efforts is overwhelming. I initially thought I hadn’t done enough to achieve anything but it’s very humbling to be honoured in this way.”

Mr Walker, nine other members of the public and an off-duty police officer were also awarded commendations by Thames Valley Police Chief Constable Francis Habgood last year following the incident.

All four suspects were charged, with one receiving nine years imprisonment, two were handed an eight-year prison sentence and the fourth gang member was given seven and a half years.