A HERO postman whose quick thinking actions thwarted a burglary has been commended by the police.

Allan Norris received a Public Recognition Commendation at this year's Worcestershire awards organised by West Mercia Police.

The 58-year-old postman was commended for his "brave, selfless and public-spirited actions" when he intervened while the burglary was in progress in Belbroughton in June.

The actions of Allan Norris, a grandfather who has been a postie for 38 years, led to police catching a prolific offender, who ended up being jailed for three years.

Mr Norris, who is based in Stourbridge, had just delivered post to a bungalow in Belbroughton Road, Hackman's Gate, Belbroughton, at 1.30pm on June 8, when he heard breaking glass and saw a man standing at the side of the building.

"I drove my van to block the top of the drive and rang the police," said Mr Norris, who lives in Stourport with his wife, Barbara.

"The man went back to his car and came up the drive but realised he couldn't get past me and started shouting at me to move the van.

"Before I could put the phone down he rammed the side of the van with his car. Next thing he got out of the car with a big metal bar and threatened to cave my head in.

"I moved the van and he shot off in his car. The police arrived three or four minutes later and took a statement and description from me."

The offender - 45-year-old Mark Robinson, of Livingstone Road, Handsworth, Birmingham - appeared at Worcester Crown Court in July, when he admitted unsuccessful attempts to burgle the bungalow in Hackman's Gate, and another one in Wyche Road, Hanbury, as well as theft, dangerous driving, having no insurance and making off without paying for fuel.

Besides being jailed, Robinson, who had 36 previous convictions, was banned from driving for three years, with an extra 19 and a half month disqualification after his prison sentence is completed.

Assistant Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman said: "It is wonderful to have the opportunity to recognise brave members of public and I would like to congratulate them, along with everyone else for their actions.

"All the recipients are thoroughly deserving of their awards and I am delighted to recognise these achievements."