A PENSIONER who confronted a knife-wielding robber nearly 50 years his junior has been honoured at the Police Public Bravery Awards.

Petrol forecourt assistant Derek Greenwood risked his life when 27-year-old Kieran Devlin, who was wearing a mask, threatened his colleague at the Texaco garage, Church Hall Lane, Accrington, on June 30, last year.

The 73-year-old grandfather took hold of Devlin when the girl behind the counter screamed.

But he released his grip when he realised he was carrying a large kitchen knife.

Mr Greenwood then picked up a bottle of wine to defend himself if needed.

Devlin reached over the counter and grabbed £130 out of the till and ran off.

Police arrested him after matching his fingerprints to a blue carrier bag he left at the scene.

Devlin, of Stanley Street, Accrington was jailed for five years four months after he had pleaded guilty to the robbery.

Mr Greenwood, who lives in Church, was presented with his award at a ceremony in Manchester yesterday.

He said: “I just acted out of instinct.

“ Anyone who was working there would have done the same.

“You can’t just walk away when something like this happens.

“There was no-one hurt which was the main thing. I was contacted by the detective about the award and I was stunned. I didn’t think I was so brave. I just did what I felt was right.”

CCTV of the incident shows a hooded Devlin entering the service station brandishing a knife. Mr Greenwood is seen confronting Devlin who thrusts the knife in his direction, forcing him to back off.

Devlin then continues to brandish the knife as Mr Greenwood grabs a bottle of wine and chases him out of the shop.

The awards, were held as part of the Association of Chief Police Officers conference.

Dep Ch Cons Chris Weigh said: “Mr Greenwood showed a tremendous amount of courage and community spirit when faced with dangerous and unpredictable offenders.

“His brave and selfless actions in protecting other members of the public is commendable. It is fantastic to see their actions being formerly recognised and they should be extremely proud.”