A Hampshire man who carried out at terrifying knife point robbery in a supermarket carpark has been locked up.

Armed Ashley Austin arrested after being chased through the carpark of Lidl and caught by two men, who had saw what had happened.

Austin had crept up behind a 56-year-old woman and pulled at her handbag, before cutting the strap, and running off.

His victim screamed and two witnesses, 53 and 46, chased the thirty-five-year-old, caught and disarmed him. They then detained him until police arrived.

The drama happened in the car park at Lidl in Bordon on July 1 At Winchester Crown Court, Austin of no fixed address, was sentenced to 56 months imprisonment for robbery and 20 months in prison to run concurrently for possession of a bladed article, after admitting both offences.

Following sentencing, Her Honour Judge Evans QC commended the two men who disarmed and detained Austin and has recommended them for a High Sheriffs Commendation.

Police Staff Investigator Adam Osborne, who oversaw the investigation, said: "I would like to thank both of the men who detained and disarmed Austin. Without hesitation they bravely and selflessly put themselves in danger to help the victim and to apprehend a robbery suspect armed with a knife.

"Austin's sentence shows just how seriously the courts view this kind of violent crime, which could have led to someone being seriously hurt. I'm pleased that his victim can take comfort knowing that he will be serving a significant sentence for his actions".