by Keith Hunt

An elderly woman who unmasked a burglar when he broke into her home late at night has been praised for her "immense bravery".

Joyce Phillips tackled thief Michael Smith at sheltered accommodation in Tunbridge Wells, pulled down his mask and demanded to know what he was doing there.

The shocked intruder turned on his heels and fled.

The plucky 87-year-old went to Maidstone Crown Court today to receive a commendation and £500 reward from the High Sheriff of Kent Georgie Warner.

Judge Philip Statman recounted how Mrs Phillips went into action when confronted by the 22-year-old drug addict just before midnight in March.

"Most of us would freeze," said the judge. "Mrs Phillips took a course of extraordinary bravery. She pulled the mask off of the burglar and asked him: 'What are you doing in my house?'

"He was clearly shocked by what she had done and he ran from her home, later to be caught with property he had taken, which I am happy to say has been restored.

"In my judgement, this was remarkable bravery."

Mrs Warner told Mrs Phillips: "I would just like to say the best thing about being High Sheriff is the privilege of meeting people like you.

"As soon as I read the citation I was absolutely dying to meet you and congratulate you on your immense bravery.

"It is people like you who make this country a better place. It gives me enormous pleasure to present you with this commendation certificate. You are an incredible lady."

Told by the High Sheriff that the incident must have been terrifying, Mrs Phillips replied: "I was furious."

Repeat burglar Smith, of Barnetts Close, Tunbridge Wells, was jailed in June for two years eight months. The latest offence was committed just two weeks after his release from prison.

What do you think of Ms Phillips' actions? Would you do the same in her position? Join the debate below.