Bradford businessman Jeff Frankel says wellwishers have restored his faith in human nature after he was injured in a knifepoint robbery at his shop.

Mr Frankel needed more than a dozen stitches in a head wound after he tackled the knife-wielding robber in his city-centre jewellers.

The chairman of Bradford Retail Action Group bravely tried to disarm the knifeman after he burst into his shop, Sydneys in Rawson Road, with an accomplice at 1.15pm last Saturday.

Despite his efforts, the raiders escaped with £16,000-worth of rings.

Since the Telegraph & Argus reported the robbery, Mr Frankel has had a stream of wellwishers coming into the shop, including old customers he had not seen in years.

He said: "I have had 30 or 40 people come in just to ask how I am and wish me well - and that does not include the local traders.

"One chap said 'I haven't come in to buy anything. I used to shop here years ago and you always gave me good service. I just wanted to say how sorry I am.'

"It's all been very touching and has given me a big boost.

"I have never lost my faith in human nature but this has certainly strengthened it. I just wanted to say thank you."

Police are still hunting the robbers and Mr Frankel urged witnesses to come forward.

The suspects were wearing dark-coloured balaclava masks or hooded tops. One was slim, 5ft 8ins, the other about 6ft. Both were seen to get into a small light-coloured car and drive off with a white woman aged around 19 with long hair tied back.

Anyone with information can call police on (01274) 376485.