A PERSONAL trainer who tackled a knife-wielding thug has been nominated for a top award.

Former paratrooper Sam Lake, 25, of Westcliff, sprinted 100m to take down the 6ft “scumbag” who robbed a woman in her own home in Esplanade Gardems, Chalkwell, last month.

Sam, a personal trainer with Military Boot Camp, has been nominated for a Citizen of Southend Award, and organisers are now hoping more people will put forward others to be recognised for their outstanding contribution to the community.

Sam, of Cossington Road, Westcliff, said: “I’m pleased that someone thought of me.

“I’m speechless.”

Organisers of the Citizen of Southend Awards are looking for nominees as it celebrates pillars of the community and acts of kindness for the sixth year running.

Organisers are looking for groups or individuals aged eight to 80 years old who have made outstanding contributions to life in Southend.

The nominee’s achievements can be based on varied criteria such as demonstrating courage and bravery, contributions to the community, leading community projects, helping care for the disadvantaged and outstanding achievements in particular fields like health, education, community affairs, social work and the environment.

The winners of the “gold”, “silver” and “bronze” awards will each receive trophies and £500, £300 and £100 cash respectively.

The awards will be presented at a ceremony in the autumn.

Nominations can be made online at www.citizenofsouthend.co.uk or by post to Adventure Island, Western Esplanade, Southend, Essex SS1 1EE by June 30.