A have-a-go heroine was back at work today, less than 24 hours after wrestling a robber to the floor to save her shop's takings.

Sandra James was targeted by a thief at 10am yesterday as she took the weekend's takings from Victoria Wine in Sedlescombe Road North, St Leonards, to the nearby post office.

The youth snatched a bag containing more than £2,800 in cash and £150 in cheques.

He ran off but had not counted on shocked Sandra giving chase. She caught up with the sprinting teenager and tripped him up before grabbing him in a headlock and screaming for help.

The frantic thief managed to squirm free and make it to a waiting car but Sandra was successful in reclaiming his loot.

Today Sandra, 36, was back behind the counter at Victoria Wine, undeterred by the episode. She said: "Everyone is saying I'm a hero but I don't see it that way.

"All I was concerned about was getting that money back.

"I remember the lad snatching it and running off. I stood there, shocked, for a second, then ran after him.

"I don't know where I got the energy but I managed to catch him and trip him over, flat on to his face.

"Then I just pounced on him and put him in a headlock"

The 5ft 6in mother of three was praised by police, though she admits she never contemplated her actions.

She said: "I never thought of the personal danger. It wasn't until afterwards I began to realise what I had done."

Police are appealing for information in the hope of tracing the thief.

He was 5ft 8in tall and clean shaven with a round face and cropped, mousy hair. He wore a blue baseball cap, light shirt with dark stripes, light blue jeans and white trainers. He had a local accent.

Detective Constable Tim Smith, of Hastings police, said: "I have congratulated Miss James myself because she acted very bravely."

He asked anyone with information to contact him on 0845 60 70 999.