A COURAGEOUS dad who chased three robbers after they attacked an elderly couple in their home has received a bravery award.

Noel Hughes tackled the vicious thugs, who threatened to "cut" the terrified 80-year-olds and sprayed fake blood in their faces, despite coming under attack himself.

Mr Hughes was presented with a Silver Award by West Mercia police during a ceremony at Birmingham's NEC.

The 47-year-old confronted the thieves, who wore Halloween masks and tights over their heads, as they fled the couple's home in Pitcher's Hill, near Wickhamford, at 6.30pm on Saturday, October 27.

The thugs, who stole a small amount of money, pushed him to the ground and punched and kicked him.

But he jumped in his car and followed them as they sped off in their vehicle, keeping police informed with a running commentary on his mobile.

"It was anger and adrenaline that made me do it," said the dad-of-two, of Wickhamford. "I didn't think of the consequences.

"As I followed them, the men were throwing things out of the car. I was able to take police to the spot where they threw the things out, and they collected evidence which was used in the court case."

As a result of the information, Stephen Burtenshaw, aged 35, was jailed for nine years, Damon Greatrix, eight years, and Mark Cross, 27, seven years, on Friday, April 19 this year.

"I feel very proud to receive the award," added Mr Hughes.

"It was quite an honour to get it."