A PUB landlord of SEVENTY EIGHT saw off a knifeman who slashed a customer across the face.

Derek Stalton grabbed a rubber mallet from behind the bar and swung it at the masked raider.

A 63-year-old drinker then hit the thug on the head with a pool cue, and when other customers got up to join in the robber fled empty-handed.

Mr Stalton said: "I've never been frightened of anybody in my life.

"When I grabbed the mallet and went for him I was just acting on instinct.

"I've asked myself if it was a gun would I have done the same, and I suppose I would."

The raid at the Grapes pub, on Quantock Close, Stockport, took place just before closing time.

Customer Andy McCorkell, 58, was leaving the pub as the raider arrived. He tried to stop him getting in and was slashed on the cheek, leaving a seven-inch gash.

Grandfather Mr McCorkell, from Stockport, said: "I unlocked the front door and the next thing I knew this big knife was coming at me.

"I was just trying to stop him getting in and I didn't feel anything.

"I only realised I had been cut when I saw all the blood pouring down my top.

"If I had put my head back he would have cut my throat. I feel lucky it wasn't worse.

"I think he is a first-class idiot. He's got to be an idiot to carry a knife in the first place.

"I just hope they catch him, lock him up and throw away the key."

He was left on the floor covered in blood as the robber demanded cash and threatened to cut the throat of an elderly drinker sitting at the bar.

But Mr Stalton and his customers fought back.

Mr Stalton added: "I want to pay tribute to the customers who were just brilliant. It would have been easy for them to sit back and not get involved but they rallied round and were fantastic."

Greater Manchester Police said: "Inquiries are ongoing and we would appeal for anyone with information to contact us."

Anyone with information should contact Stockport CID on 0161 856 9840 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.