Weymouth shop owner targeted by knife wielding man showed 'immense bravery'

William Thorne, 24, entered Broadwey Village Stores in Dorchester Road, Weymouth armed with a kitchen knife in a bid to rob the store at around 1pm on Saturday, July 24.

The shop owner Kevin Kanthan, who had been carrying out repairs to the counter with a small drill, was then alarmed when an intoxicated Thorne entered the store.

Thorne threw a bottle of tequila at the counter’s plastic screen and made threats towards him and demanded he handed over money.

Kevin Kanthan of Broadwey Village Stores, based off Dorchester Road, Weymouth, fought off a man who attempted to steal money from his shop. Picture: Dorset Echo/Michael Taylor

Thorne forced his way behind the counter and punched Mr Kanthan in the face before the shop owner overpowered him. He caused Thorne to drop the knife and chased him out.

Officers attended and Thorne was arrested nearby. The victim sustained minor injuries including bruising and swelling to his face.

Thorne, of Frome in Somerset, was jailed for four years and three months at Southampton Crown Court after he admitted to attempted robbery, criminal damage, and possession of a knife in a public place.

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The damage caused to Broadwey Village Stores in Weymouth. Picture: Kevin Kanthan

Following the court case, a police figure praised Kanthan's 'immense bravery' in what was an 'extremely distressing incident'.

Detective Constable Claire Lloyd, of Weymouth CID, said: "This was an extremely distressing incident for the victim to encounter as he was simply carrying out his job and he showed immense bravery with his quick reactions in the circumstances.

"There were customers present in the shop at the time of the offence and it must have been frightening for them to witness this display of unwarranted violence.

"Thanks to the swift response of officers, and thanks to the CCTV in the victims shop, we were able to ensure Thorne was put before the court to face the consequences of his actions in very quick time.

William Thorne was jailed for the attempted robbery

"Knife violence will simply not be tolerated and Dorset Police will do what is necessary to ensure those carrying knives and using violence in our community face the courts and are punished with the full weight of the law.

"This sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime, which I hope is contemplated on by others considering carrying knives in public."