A TOTTINGTON man who helped police detain an attempted rapist has been recognised for his 'exceptional act of bravery'.

Ben Warburton had just returned from a late night run when he was awoken by the screams of a woman being violently attacked by a man close to his home in Bury Road, Tottington, in the early hours of June 1 of this year.

He went outside and confronted the man, who he chased for more than a mile before detaining him until police officers arrived.

Last month, Jamie Ware, aged 23, of no fixed address, was jailed for 10 years after pleading guilty to attempted rape and attempted robbery.

In recognition of his heroic act in detaining Ware, Mr Warburton, who works as a gym instructor at Castle Leisure Centre, was presented with the Greater Manchester Constable’s Citizens’ Commendation at a ceremony at Bury police headquarters at the end of last month.

The 28-year-old, who is also a registered amateur boxer, said: “I feel very proud to have received this award, but the main thing is that the woman is OK.

"I just did what anyone would do when hearing someone in distress, but it’s lovely to be recognised for serving your community.”

GMP Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “This was a serious (sexual) attack and an exceptional act of bravery. This young man is most definitely worthy of our Citizen’s Community Award.”

Zilpha Lang, Bury Council leisure facilities manager, added: “We are all very pleased and proud to hear of Ben’s brave act and delighted that it has been formally recognised by Chief Constable Ian Hopkins.”