Shopkeeper foils robbery by throwing mug at raider (From Daily Echo)

Knife-wielding robber fled empty-handed after brave shopkeeper’s quick thinking action

9:58am Friday 30th July 2010 in Video By Tara Russell, News Reporter

A BRAVE shop worker foiled a knife-wielding robber with a painted face – by throwing a mug at him.

It hit the thug – who had smeared red lipstick or paint across his face and wore a black hood as a disguise – and winded him forcing him to run off empty-handed.

Colin Hobson’s courageous fightback was captured by security cameras at the tiny city centre store opposite Southampton’s law courts.

It shows that seconds earlier the violent crook had been just inches from slashing Colin’s throat as he brandished the blade when he refused to hand over cash.

Witnesses should call Shirley CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

• An 18-year-old man from Southampton has been arrested on suspicion of attempted robbery.

COLIN Hobson’s terrifying ordeal comes as the Daily Echo is hunting for our Newsagent of the Year. If your local shop is the beating heart of the community and works tirelessly to provide a service to its customers even if that means you are sure to pick up a copy of the Daily Echo on time and a pint of milk, then tell us. The winner of the Daily Echo Newsagent of the Year will get £100 in vouchers plus a plaque to hang in their shop and automatic entry into the NFRN overall Retail Excellence Awards, where the prize is £500. The deadline for nominations is August 27. Related links More Crime Related News More Southampton News Nominate your Newsagent here To nominate your newsagent worth their weight in pints of milk and newspapers go to www.dailyecho/newsagent.