March 21, 2001 10:47: s=10A PAIR of OAPs queuing at an Enfield post office tackled a highly dangerous armed robber and restrained him until police arrived, a court heard.o

Partially blind Richard Brett, 70, and Joan Worland, 65, pounced on robber Ambrose Atoro, 20, while he raided the Brick Lane Post Office, Hertford Road, last July.

Three other have-a-go heroes John Weafer, Paul Pavlou and Kenny Riley helped tackle Atoro who was brandishing a fake, Dirty Harry-style Magnum gun.

Postmaster Clive Cook was left injured after the robber battered his face and head with the heavy hand gun in a struggle before the brave customers intervened.

Mr Brett beat the robber with his white stick while Mr Weafer grabbed him round the neck.

The others then joined in and restrained Atoro until the police arrived.

Judge Martin Stephens QC praised the have-a-go heroes during the trial at the Old Bailey last week.

He said: "It was so important what they did because he was a very dangerous man and has been arrested and brought to justice as a result of what these people did in a very public spirited way.

"They had no idea whether the gun was loaded or not. These people are all worthy of the highest praise and commendation of this court.

"They have all shown conspicuous bravery, some elderly, some disabled, but all helped bring a very dangerous man to justice."

Atoro, a schizophrenic, had escaped from Chase Farm Hospital the previous day.

He admitted attempted robbery, possessing an imitation firearm with intent, and wounding Mr Cook with intent to cause grevous bodily harm during the incident on July 6 last year.

Atoro was committed to a secure hospital unit without restriction of time after Judge Stephens considered two medical reports.

The five heroes were awarded £250 each for their bravery while Mr Cook received £400.