Clerk repels armed robber

Police have praised the courage of Teignmouth's town clerk after he fought off an armed robber.

David Tickell was confronted by a man carrying a small hammer and a kitchen knife at the council offices in Bitton House.

The man demanded money and Mr Tickell handed over two £5 notes - the only cash he had on him.

As the man went to take the money, the town clerk grabbed him and there was a tussle.

It was spur of the moment

David Tickell

Mr Tickell suffered slight cuts and bruises and a cut lip, but was able to push the robber out of the building.

Mr Tickell said: "The adrenaline came forward and I focused on his knife.

"As he came towards me, I grabbed his wrist. It was spur of the moment.

"It was like a pub brawl I suppose. Fortunately he realised he was not going to get anything."

His attacker is described as being white, in his late 20s to early 30s, with short dark hair.

He is about 5ft 10in tall and was wearing a blue sports jacket and jeans.

Police want to hear from anyone who may have seen him running away from Bitton House on Wednesday evening.

A spokesman said: "Mr Tickell acted very courageously. It's very rare for council buildings to be targeted in this way."