Three bravehearts who risked their lives by tackling criminals this week demonstrated that Brentwood is a town fit for heroes.

One of them, a girl aged just 17, chased a thief who grabbed her purse and made him give it back.

The other two, who averted a potential disaster at Brentwood Town Hall when a man threatened to set light the reception area, are being honoured at an awards ceremony tonight (Friday).

All three were saluted this week by Brentwood Mayor, Cllr David Minns, who praised their "extraordinary courage.

The girl, quick-thinking Julia Tringham, turned the tables on the young purse-snatcher.

Julia, of Cricketers Lane, Herongate, was walking along Ingrave Road, when a boy aged about 15 grabbed her purse, containing £30.

He ran off towards Wilson's Corner but she sprinted after him, collared him and demanded her purse back.

Julia, who studies Leisure and Tourism at Chelmsford College said: ''Before I could stop the boy he snatched my purse and started running. Without thinking I gave chase but he didn't get very far before I grabbed him and demanded my purse.

"He said to me, 'What are you going to do about it?' I simply responded by snatching it away from him. Then he ran away. "

Environmental Health chief Simon Bennett and caretaker Steve Pavey, who averted a potential disaster at the Town Hall in January, will be honoured for their bravery at Brentwood's Civic Awards ceremony.

They calmed down a man who poured petrol in the reception area and threatened to set it alight.

Cllr Minns said: "All three are heroes prepared to stand up and be counted. I'm so proud we have people like Simon and Steve working for the council. It could have been a very dangerous incident.''

He added: "I really admire Julia's courage. She stood up for what she believed to be right, against what can only be described as evil.

"I praise her for not being prepared to tolerate injustice."

So cool: Julia Tringham with the purse she snatched back

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