Owner of Frith's Liquors Mr. William Frith presented Mr. Craig Talbot with a $1,000 travel voucher and a bottle of expensive wine for his brave efforts a fortnight ago.

But Mr. Frith and General Manager Mr. Marc Morabito told other employees not to get involved with armed thieves.

An employee of the St. George's store, Mr. Talbot turned hero during a raid by a man armed with a fake gun. The man bolted after grabbing a handful of cash out of the till.

Mr. Talbot immediately gave chase, taking a chance the gun was not real. He chased the thief out of the store and along York Street, then tackled him to the ground in an alley off Queen Street and was able to subdue him until Police arrived.

Officers handcuffed the man and led him away while a crowd of people, including visitors cheered.

Mr. Talbot suffered a scrape to his face in the scuffle. But he got back all the stolen cash.

Most of Mr. Talbot's workmates turned up at yesterday's surprise presentation at the Front Street store.

Mr. Morabito said: "We have to congratulate Craig for his bravery, but I have to stress that we do not want any other member of Frith's staff doing the same.

"My first reaction was that I would have told the robber where the money was and where he could get more! "But at moments like that one does not have time to think and Craig demonstrated that his instincts were courageous and brave. I just hope he does not do it again.'' Frith's owner Mr. William Frith made the presentation of the $1,000 travel voucher and a bottle of the aptly named Chateau Talbot 1982 wine -- a very good year according to Mr. Talbot who added he hopes to own the vineyard one day! Mr. Frith said: "We are all very, very proud of you in the Frith's Liquors family. You did an outstanding job above and beyond the call of duty.

"You appear to be the first hero the Town of St. George's has had for some time,'' said the Corporation of Hamilton alderman.

Mr. Talbot was completely surprised by the party in his honour, he said he believed he had been called into Hamilton for possible bad news.

He said: "I really appreciate this. I think these gifts are worth more than the damages.'' A 21-year-old Pembroke man was arrested in connection with the theft, according to Police.