TWO men who put the pursuit of justice before their own personal safety have been honoured by The High Sheriff and the county’s foremost County Court Judge.

The men – Terry Pagett of Lache, Chester and Keith Tomlinson of Warrington – were both involved in the apprehension of criminals in separate incidents last December.

Now they have been awarded special commendation certificates from His Honour Judge Elgan Edwards, Recorder for Chester and Resident Judge for Cheshire Crown Courts, and The High Sheriff of Cheshire Nicholas Bromley-Davenport.

A presentation took place a Chester Castle when Mr Tomlinson was congratulated on his actions - unfortunately Mr Pagett was unable to be present.

The two men are to receive £350 and £250 respectively as an acknowledgement of their public spirited actions.

Early last December Mr Pagett witnessed a violent handbag snatch on a local woman in Chester city centre and immediately gave chase, apprehending the thief and detaining him until the police arrived.

His actions led to the defendant being sentenced to two years imprisonment at Chester Crown Court a month later; nd Mr Pagett receiving a Crown Court Commendation.

Just before Christmas at Warrington Crown Court a defendant sentenced to seven years for armed robbery jumped from the dock in a bid for freedom but Mr Tomlinson - employed at the courts as an usher - gave chase, caught the prisoner and returned him to custody.

The judiciary considered Mr Tomlinson had acted beyond what was considered his normal duties and was congratulated on his timely intervention.

The defendant received an extra six months custodial sentence to be served at the end of the original seven year term and his captor received a Crown Court Commendation and the award of £250.