HERO shopkeeper Derrick North, whose call to police led to the capture of quadruple killer Mark Hobson, spoke today of his pride at receiving a top award.

He was praised for his "vigilance, calm actions and quick-thinking" in alerting the police.

The hardworking 79-year-old was back serving customers within hours of receiving a certificate of appreciation from North Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Della Cannings.

Mr North, who runs North's Garage, off the A19, near Shipton-by-Beningbrough, recognised Hobson when he came into his garage a week after the four killings.

He told the Evening Press: "I really appreciate the recognition I've been given - it's very good of them.

"People still ask me about it all the time.

"I feel proud about what I did. It's something that had to be done. I'll put the award somewhere safe."

More than 50 police officers were also presented with awards for their efforts in the huge manhunt, following the murders of twins Claire and Diane Sanderson, of Camblesforth, near Selby, and Strensall pensioners James and Joan Britton.

Hobson, 34, was jailed for life earlier this year after being convicted at Leeds Crown Court of all four murders.

Among those who received an award at Thirsk Racecourse was Detective Superintendent Javad Ali, who headed the investigation.

"My thoughts are always with the families of the Sandersons and the Brittons and that will never change," he said.

"The investigation was a tremendous team effort by North Yorkshire Police - a lot of hard work went into it. It demonstrated that as a police force we can hold our own."

Inspector Dave Pegg, a Selby officer for many years but now at York, was also honoured. "It was the most horrific inquiry I've ever been involved with," he said.

"I really do feel for the families."

Certificates of merit were also awarded to Roger Baker, then Deputy Chief Constable but now the Chief Constable of Essex, Det Chief Supt Dick Mann, Det Chief Supt Steve Read, Det Supt Barry Honeysett, Det Insp Dai Malyn and Det Insp Steve Maud.

Updated: 10:22 Thursday, September 29, 2005