A POSTMAN who tackled a handbag snatcher has been added to a shortlist of unsung heroes working for the Royal Mail.
Former marathon runner Bernard Sutcliffe raced to the rescue of an 81-year-old woman when he heard shouts behind his post van in Bury Road, Tottington, last September.
He saw a man running past him carrying a black handbag and gave chase, managing to grab the bag back. At the time of the incident, the elderly victim said: "I was so grateful to Mr Sutcliffe for getting my bag back. My life was in there. The robber could have done anything to Mr Sutcliffe. He could have had a knife. He was so brave."
Mr Sutcliffe (53), of Broadoak Terrace, Bury, works as a postal officer and driver. Customers from across the region sent in nominations for the Royal Mail's First Class People Awards 2006, citing incidents of bravery, community spirit and helpfulness beyond the call of duty.
Mr Sutcliffe is among 14 postmen and women who will each receive £100 and go through to the North West finals of the contest.
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