Hero Robert Exley clings onto thief

Jan 20 2010 by Rob Pattinson, The Journal

A THIEF who targeted a North East business owner lost out to the cunning of a have-a-go-hero who managed to hang on to his shoe.

David Stobbart wriggled free from the grip of Northumberland rugby player Robert Exley, as the pair wrestled in a park, early on New Year’s Day.

But as Stobbart, 29 disappeared over the fence of Chase Park, in Whickham, Gateshead, Robert swiped a trainer from his foot and handed it in to police.

Officers later tracked down the offender and charged him with stealing belongings from the BMW of Tom Robson, owner of environmental engineering firm Roflow.

Stobbart, of East View Terrace, Swalwell, Gateshead, is still waiting for his fate to be decided after he appeared in front of Magistrates in the borough.

He pleaded guilty to theft, but the case was adjourned for sentencing to allow probation to prepare reports.

The court was told Mr Exley, of Berwick, Northumberland, had been enjoying a New Year’s Eve bash with friends and family at Mr Robson’s home, in Whickham, when he noticed someone climbing out of a car outside.