TIMELINE OF TERROR

JUST some of the catalogue of incidents which Mr Pillai has endured.

August 2006 – Mr Pillai is dragged out of his car and assaulted outside the shop. A man was later jailed for affray, criminal damage and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

October 2006 – Bricks are thrown at Mr Pillai and his wife after he challenges a shoplifter. Almost £1,000 of damage was caused to the shop, and Mr Pillai's finger was broken when one of the bricks hit it as he shielded his face.

May 2007 – Lager is stolen from the shop. A man was later prosecuted and admitted the theft.

June 2007 – Mr Pillai is headbutted and racially abused. He told the Telegraph that people "think if they attack me I will run from this place, but I won't."

October 2007 – Vodka was stolen from the shop. A man later had the theft taken into consideration at court.

April 2008 – Ryan Baldock steals from the store on April 23. One day later he returns, and tries to steal a bottle of wine. A fight breaks out between him and Mr Pillai, and Mr Pillai uses a Stanley knife to cut Baldock.

October 2008 – Mr Pillai is prosecuted for attacking Baldock.