National Pubwatch has awarded a bravery and meritorious conduct award to pub manager Stuart Richards, who intervened to apprehend a violent suspect with no thought for his own safety.

The award, which was presented at the National Pubwatch Conference earlier this month in Sheffield, recognises individuals, whose actions have either saved life or minimised physical harm in the night-time economy.

Stuart, who in July 2022 was working in a pub in Kingston, became aware of a domestic incident between a male and female in the venue.

He was concerned that the female might be in danger and followed them when they left the pub intervening when the man attempted to strike the female.

Stuart with National Pubwatch Chair Steve Baker and South Yorkshire Police Chief Superintendent. (Photo Credit: National Pubwatch).

He also aided police who attempted to apprehend the suspect after he struck a female officer in the face.

On receiving his award at the conference Stuart said: "I was just doing something that I thought was the right thing to do.

"I am quite surprised but very happy to be recognised and it means more because National Pubwatch is part of the industry.

"I am very proud to get this award and it means a lot."

National PubWatch is a voluntary organisation, which supports over 800 Pubwatch schemes across the UK, and works to promote safe, secure and social drinking environments in all licensed premises throughout the UK.

Sarah Olney, MP for Richmond Park and North Kingston met Stuart at The White Hart in Barnes, where he now works to speak to him about the award and what he did.

Olney said: "I am extremely grateful to Stuart and to pub landlords and pub workers everywhere who are keeping an eye out for their female customers and making a real commitment to keeping them safe."

She added: "I think it's great that we have schemes like PubWatch whereby pubs really take an interest in people's safety and are really looking out for their customers not just within the premises but also as they are leaving."

"I think it makes women in particular feel much, much safer."

Sarah said:

National Pubwatch chair Steve Baker OBE said: "Stuart went above and beyond to ensure the safety of one of his customers.

"It is a privilege to recognise his brave act and to thank him for taking such action."