Have-a-go judge tackles muggers

Mr Justice Penry-Davey commandeered a car in the chase

A six-and-a-half foot tall judge has told how he took on a gang of seven muggers who attacked him on his way to the High Court.

Mr Justice David Penry-Davey, 56, said his assailants, aged in their late teens or early 20s, attacked him on the steps of West Dulwich station in south east London at about 0715 GMT on Thursday.

I just reacted instantly to see whether I could stop any of them

Mr Justice David Penry-Davey

"One of the larger ones started punching me in the face and I ended up on the ground," he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

But instead of admitting defeat, the 6ft 7in judge picked himself up and chased after the group.

Reaching a road he commandeered a stranger's car stopped at traffic lights and continued the pursuit.

Carries on to court

With Mr Penry-Davey in the passenger seat, the driver chased the attackers until they threw the stolen goods over a fence, escaping in a waiting car.

The have-a-go judge managed to retrieve his mobile phone, diary and wallet - but around £150 was missing.

Despite cuts and bruises to his face, a black eye and smashed glasses, he then continued on to court.

Mr Penry-Davey said: "It was a very unpleasant experience in broad daylight but it could happen to anyone.

"I just reacted instantly to see whether I could stop any of them.

Crimes such as these are given top priority at the moment

British Transport Police

"It doesn't mean I won't catch the train again or anything like that.

"It just makes me far more wary of certain situations.

"I have been involved with the criminal justice process for many years now and this certainly won't change my views on criminal punishment."

Police said the muggers had earlier tried to attack a 40-year-old woman and 45-year-old man on the station platform.

British Transport Police are appealing for witnesses.

"Crimes such as these are given top priority at the moment," a spokesman said.