A woman has paid tribute to a plucky pensioner who helped to fend off armed gunmen trying to rob a post office.

Manager Birgit Clark said the elderly woman intervened when two masked men tried to rob the store in Alexandra Drive, Berrylands, on September 14.

She said the woman, who is a regular customer, shouted at the robbers demanding they leave, eventually helping to scare them off.

Mrs Clark said she did not get a look at the two men because she was pistol-whipped on the head from behind, but said with the help of her “bodyguard” recovered in time to stop the pair making off with any cash.

Mrs Clark, originally from Germany, was taken to hospital with minor injuries but said she was back to work the following morning.

She said: “When the two guys came she just was not having it. I don’t think she realised how brave she had been.

“There’s not a lot of people who would have had the courage to do that. She was absolutely brilliant, fantastic. I am so grateful.

“I just hope they catch them now.”

She said that she has been “overwhelmed” by the kindness and support shown by the people in Berrylands since the attack.

She has also received a visit from Kingston and Surbiton MP Edward Davey who visited her to offer his support.

She said: “It is simply marvellous to know that people really care about one another round here.

"I have had chocolate, letters, flowers, cards from young children hoping I get better.

“I just want to say how much I appreciate all that everyone has done for me since those two guys came in here.

“It just goes to show what a wonderful community there is in Berrylands.”

After the robbery, the postmaster, who this week is supporting Children in Need with a Pudsey Bear competition, was described as a popular member of the Berrylands community.

Flying Squad detectives are asking anyone with information about the robbery to call the incident room at Barnes on 020 8247 3940 or crime stoppers 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous.

Do you know the plucky pensioner who rescued Birgit? Call the newsdesk on 020 8744 4244.