A MAN who tackled and held a suspected armed robber until police arrived has been hailed a 'community hero'.

The 38-year-old was walking on New South Terrace, in Birtley, at about 9am on Bank Holiday Monday when he saw a man running away from an off-licence.

Recognising something was wrong, he pulled the man to the ground and detained him until police arrived.

The suspect was arrested after it emerged the off-licence had been targeted moments earlier by an armed robber who threatened staff with a knife and stole the till.

He was taken into custody on suspicion of the offence and officers seized a knife and found the till nearby.

Chief Inspector Chris Grice, of Northumbria Police, has now praised the member of the public for his bravery.

He said: “We would always discourage the public from risking their own safety but we have to recognise examples of bravery such as this.

“The witness saw a suspected thief attempting to flee the scene of the crime and acted on instinct to detain him until police arrived.

“He demonstrated exceptional bravery and because of his actions a man is due to appear in court charged with some very serious offences.

“This was a terrifying incident for the staff at the off-licence, who were very shaken up, so it is really important that we were able to respond quickly to secure charges.

“The member of the public who intervened is a true community hero and he should feel very proud about his actions that day.”

The 37-year-old suspect was charged with robbery and possession of a bladed article and has since been remanded to appear at Newcastle Crown Court next month.