Bravery award for man, 84, who fought off mugger

A pensioner who fought off a mugger with the help of a pair of jeans has been commended for his bravery.

Ron Croker was on his own at the Coin-Op Launderette in Maltby, Rotherham, on 7 January when a masked Lloyd Smith burst in and demanded his wallet.

Mr Croker, 84, wrapped a pair of jeans around his arm to protect him from any potential weapons and shoved Smith, 42, back through the door.

This week, Mr Croker was presented with a commendation for his "tremendous courage" in fighting off Smith, who has since been jailed for the attack.

Mr Croker suffered bruises to his hands and arm but otherwise escaped without losing his wallet or any other items.

He previously told the BBC he had worked "all my life" for his money and decided Smith was "not having it".

Rotherham District Commander Ch Supt Andy Wright said Mr Croker's actions had been "nothing short of remarkable".

"We often talk about police officers running towards danger when others run away from it," he said.

"In this instance, Ron did neither. He stood his ground, fought for what is right and showed tremendous courage when it would have been easy not to."

According to South Yorkshire Police, Smith was identified by members of the public after CCTV footage of the attack was publicised.

Smith, of Myrtle Grove, Rotherham, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and was jailed for three years and nine months at Sheffield Crown Court in June.

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