The Munster Express has been informed of three separate instances that occurred in recent days that deserve to be highlighted.

The first occurred in Tramore when three teenagers found a purse as they walked through the town centre near the old Bank of Ireland building. To their surprise the purse contained over €500 in cash but the youngsters were as honest as the day was long and immediately took the cash to the Garda Station. It turned out that the money was the monthly mortgage payment of the owner who could ill afford to have lost such a sum.

A Tramore pensioner was another honest citizen who found a social welfare cheque for €196 while on a visit to Dungarvan. When he returned home he took the cheque to his local post office and, after enquiries were made, it turned out to be the property of a person living in Portlaw. Needless to say, the owner was more than relieved to be reunited with his cheque.

The third instance involved outstanding bravery in the city centre on the part of Leon Situlombamo, a part-time employee of The Handmade Furniture Shop at 44 The Quay. Entering the shop shortly after 5am to prepare for an early morning delivery, Leon was confronted by an intruder who threatened him with a knife and a large pair of scissors.

However, Leon stood his ground and managed to disarm and restrain the intruder before handing him over to the gardai.

Originally from the Congo, Leon came to Ireland seven years ago and was granted asylum two years ago. He lives in the city with his wife, Esther and their two daughters. The family is expecting a new arrival in September.