A heroic supervisor who was shot at point-blank range as he confronted armed robbers has received the highest accolade at national bravery awards.

Colin Thomas was left fighting for his life after being shot by five robbers, who targeted the Costco cash and carry on Imperial Way, armed with hammers and a shotgun on September 17, 2009.

Mr Thomas, then 24, raised the alarm and gave chase, but was shot by one robber who remained standing at the doorway. The gunmen then made off with £70,000 of jewellery.

Brothers Yohan and Yamani Clarke were sentenced to a combined period of more than 22 years for their part in the robbery in September 2010.

This year, on May 24, at the annual ACPO Police Bravery Awards Mr Thomas, who suffered injuries to his colon, bowel, stomach and pancreas, was presented with the Binney Award and a gold medal in recognition of his actions.

He said: "It all seemed to happen in seconds. I heard the alarm go off and glass shattering and ran over. The gunman shot me in the stomach, I was concious but felt the life draining out of me.

"I later found out there were two off-duty Met Police officers there who helped me by stemming the bleeding, talking to me and keeping me conscious.

"I was taken to intensive care, where I stayed for five weeks. I had surgery five times and may need more. I am still not fully recovered."

Detective Inspector Gary Smith was off-duty in the store at the time, he said: "He was very brave to do what he did.

"These awards are not designed to encourage people to put themselves in danger, they simply offer us the chance to honour their bravery."

Martin Sandlar, store manager said: "We are very proud of Colin. He is a vibrant, key member of the team and it is lovely to have him back running about the checkouts with a spring in his step.

"He has been back at work for the last four months doing a great job.

"It was a hugely traumatic experience for all the staff, especially Colin and his family, and this award and the closure of the case means we can hopefully now go forward."