The bravery of an ordinary woman who risked her safety to stop a horrific attack has been honoured in Sheffield.
Heroic Taxi Worker Saves Woman From Sexual Assault
On the early morning of Saturday 21 August 2021, Teresa Locke was working at a Maidstone taxi firm when she spotted trouble. A man grabbed a young woman waiting for a taxi, choking and pushing her against shutters. Teresa rushed to help but was punched in the face, smashing her glasses.
The attacker then dragged the victim to a nearby car park and began to sexually assault her. Teresa didn’t back down. She returned with a security guard, wrestled the attacker off the victim, and locked the young woman inside the taxi office for safety.
The assailant furiously banged on the window before fleeing. He was caught and jailed for three years in June 2022.
Binney Medal Awarded for Exceptional Courage
For her fearless actions, Teresa received the prestigious Binney Medal. Named after Sir Ralph Binney, a naval captain who died trying to stop an armed robbery, the medal honours outstanding bravery.
Assistant Chief Constable Andy Pritchard of Kent Police presented Teresa with the award, alongside Martin Hewitt, Chairman of the National Police Chiefs’ Council.
“It was an absolute privilege to be present to see Teresa recognised for her extraordinary actions,” said ACC Pritchard.
“Our officers are trained for these incidents, but the public isn’t. It’s humbling to see Kent residents risk their own safety for others. Teresa fully deserves her commendation.”
