A HEROIC off-duty cop who chased down two raiders after they struck at a jewellery shop has been commended.

Det Con Joanne Smith, who works for Suffolk Police, was in Colchester in July last year when she saw two men armed with metal bars trying to raid Chimes watch repair.

Essex Police were called to the scene in Trinity Street shortly before 11am after two men pulled up outside the shop on a motorcycle.

While the robbers grabbed watches and jewellery, onlookers grabbed the keys to the bike.

DC Smith then chased one of the armed men through the town and tackled him to the ground with the help of a chef on his way to work.

Simon Jacobs, 21, of no fixed abode, admitted robbery and was sentenced to 32 months at Chelmsford Crown Court last August.

DC Smith was commended for her actions alongside six other officers at Essex Police Headquarters in Chelmsford on Monday.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Due to Joanne’s actions, the stolen property was returned to the shop and the man was charged and remanded with robbery.

“Joanne was commended for her bravery and selflessness during an incident where she was faced with considerable danger.”

Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington handed out the commendations.

He said: “It brings me great pleasure to host these ceremonies to celebrate ordinary individuals taking extra-ordinary steps to help save the lives of others, protect the vulnerable and keep the people of Essex safe.

“It might be what our officers, staff and volunteers do on a daily basis but their actions are courageous and I take great pride in being able to award them.”

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Jane Gardener said: “I’m delighted to be here today. One of the most enjoyable parts of my job is getting the opportunity to meet officers and in this case, a member of the public too, who go the extra mile for the people of Essex on a daily basis.

“I would like to say thank you for the outstanding contribution you have made in a range of difficult circumstances. One of the things I’ve always found with the officers I see is their absolute compassion in spite of the challenging situations they are confronted with.”