A would-be mugger who snatched a woman’s bag got a shock after he was pursued by offenders on Community Payback.
The group of offenders were clearing Stoneydown Park in East London, as part of their community punishment, when they were approached by the woman who had been robbed seconds earlier.
The offenders then chased the bag-snatcher and managed to get back her handbag, though the suspect was able to get away.
Community Payback supervisor Gary Hall, said: 'When I first saw my lads dashing up the road I half-thought they might be doing a runner.
'But in fact they were brilliant and did a real public service and I'm proud of them.'
The woman said: 'It was a horrible experience and I am so grateful for what the men did. 'It shows that everyone deserves a second chance and I am planning to go and meet them and thank them properly.'
Offender Sam Fage, who helped get back the bag, said: 'It was my first day doing community work and it was very good to be able to give something back to society.'
