An NHS worker on the Isle of Wight, who was attacked in a car park at St Mary's Hospital, has spoken of the "scary" ordeal, and thanked members of the public who came to her rescue.

Nerijus Suminskas, of no fixed abode, was sentenced for attempted robbery at the Isle of Wight Crown Court today (Friday).

The court heard how, on December 7, 2022, the 47-year-old tried to put his hand in a woman's handbag in the North Car Park of the hospital site.

Before he could succeed, two members of the public intervened, with one of them detaining him until police arrived.

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The court heard how the woman, who is in her 60s, has been left "wary" in the wake of the attack.

A victim impact statement read to the court said: "Having to go to work and park in the same car park as the attack happened makes me very anxious.

"I check out to see who is in the car park before I get out of my car. This is something I have to do daily.

"I'm wary when I'm on my own. I fear people asking me about this attack as I don't want to have to reiterate the experience. This is something that goes on in my head and I just want to reply that I'm ok, I'm fine.

"I have visions of the man's face and the attack."

She also thanked the two people who helped to stop Suminskas.

The statement continued: "I know that this was a random attack. I was not a target. I was in the wrong place at the wrong time.

"Nevertheless this was very scary. I was just going to work.

"I could not help but think what could have happened if people had not heard my shouts for help.

"I'm so grateful that two people did come to help me."

Suminskas was sentenced to 12 months' prison, suspended for two years.