84-Year-Old Pensioner Fends Off Robber in Launderette Using Jeans

Ron Croker defended himself against a masked attacker demanding money, forcing the assailant to flee twice during the confrontation in South Yorkshire.

Ron Croker, 84, was targeted by a masked robber while doing laundry at Coin-Op Launderette in Maltby, South Yorkshire, on January 7, 2025.
Using a pair of jeans as a weapon, Croker resisted the attacker, who demanded money and attempted to grab his wallet.
The robber fled after Croker's resistance but returned moments later, only to be repelled again by the pensioner’s determined defense.
Croker sustained minor injuries, including bruises, but was otherwise unharmed; a GoFundMe campaign has raised over £2,700 to support him.
South Yorkshire Police have charged 42-year-old Lloyd Smith with attempted robbery, and he remains in custody awaiting a court appearance on February 7.