THE Dover Mercury's chief reporter Graham Tutthill has been praised for his "courage and enthusiasm" by officials of the Shopwatch scheme which aims to reduce crime in the community.

At the Safer Shopping Award ceremony at Dover Town Hall, Mr Tutthill was presented with a certificate to mark his commitment. The guests were told how, on three occasions in particular last year, Graham had helped track down two offenders. He broke off from a Press interview to help detain a shoplifter, he passed on descriptions to the police which resulted in an arrest, and he chased an offender who was later arrested for criminal damage.

Mr Tutthill said later: "I am delighted. The Shopwatch scheme is good news for Dover and I am pleased to be able to play my part in a positive venture within the community."

Handing over the award, Chief Inspector David Cartwright told Mr Tutthill: "Your courage, commitment and enthusiasm are an outstanding example of public spirit and service to the community."

A certificate also went to Martin Adams who was shopping in Woolworths last year when he noticed a man acting suspiciously. The qualified security guard chased him and held him until the police arrived.

"I apprehended him outside first," said Mr Adams, who used to work for SeaFrance. "But he ran off and I gave chase. I caught him and brought him back to Woolworths where staff had called the police."

The man had stolen £40 of goods which was recovered. "I was quite shocked to get this award," added Mr Adams. "I am really quite chuffed."