An Ipswich carer who took down a man chasing a woman with a hammer has been recognised for his bravery.

Robert Bray, from Castle Hill, was driving his wife along Playford Road on December 19 2023 when he saw a woman running across the road trying to flee a man. 

Taking action Mr Bray, who is a full time carer for his wife, grappled the man to the floor.

During the incident, the man hit the family's car twice with such a force the hammer smashed through the bonnet into the engine bay.

Mr Bray suffered an injury to his forehead after being struck by the man, who also spat in his face.

Despite this, Mr Bray managed to restrain him until the police arrived.

Officers say the suspect was found to have had significant mental health conditions and had stolen the hammer before smashing the window of the house and assaulting the woman.

Mr Bray with his wife Samantha and daughter Chloe.Mr Bray with his wife Samantha and daughter Chloe. (Image: Suffolk police)

Mr Bray has been awarded the gold award and Binney Award at the National Police Public Bravery Awards in Sheffield on Thursday. 

The awards honour selfless members of the public who have placed themselves in dangerous situations, protected others and defended communities.

Mr Bray, who was joined by his wife and daughter at the event, said: "I am shocked by this and I wasn't expecting anything.

Speaking to this paper, he said: "I didn't do this for the awards I did this because I had to."

Chief Constable of Suffolk Constabulary Rachel Kearton who attended the awards said: “It was a great honour to accompany Robert to the ceremony and it was wonderful to see him accept his very well-deserved honour that marks such outstanding bravery.

The Chief Constable of South Yorkshire Police Lauren Poultney, who hosted the awards ceremony, said: “Robert acted out of sheer goodwill when he witnessed the aftermath of an incident, attempting to protect a complete stranger.

“He is a shining example of why these awards are so important."