Christian Joyce, 32, of Arden Green, Fleetwood, gave chase and managed to detain the assailant with the help of another man.

Now Christian has received a police commendation from the head of local police, Supt Tim Jacques.

It was back in December that the incident occurred in Fleetwood town centre.

Christian saw the 14 year old culprit grab the 86-year-old woman’s handbag and knock her to the ground.

After catching the thug, Christian and the other man held on until the police arrived.

The teenager was charged with an offence of robbery.

Christian, a fish packer for fish merchants C&G Neve, said: “It was just one of those occasions where you act on the spur of the moment. I hope it never happens again but I would do the same if it did.

“All I thought at the time was that there was no way I was letting this lad get away with what he did.”

Ch Supt Tim Jacques who said: “I am extremely proud to hand Christian his award and his family can be extremely proud of him as well.

“We live in a very safe place generally but it is heartening to know that members of the public are prepared to act in such an extraordinary way.’’

And Det Sgt Dave Reeder of Fleetwood Police said: “The intervention of Mr Joyce was critical in bringing this offence to a swift and satisfactory conclusion and officers were extremely grateful for his actions.”