A SHOPKEEPER who slashed two raiders with a knife today vowed: "I would do it again."

Off licence owner Pravin Patel grabbed a craft knife when the pair threatened his family and repeatedly lashed out at them.

And today as the robbers -- brothers Lee and Anthony Thompson -- were starting seven year jail terms, the defiant store chief declared: "I had to protect my wife and children. I thought they were going to hurt them."

The two bothers confronted Mr Patel when he was working in his off-licence in Park Road, Westhoughton, last November.

Wearing balaclavas, the pair brandished a knife and bolt-cutters and demanded cash.

When one of the men attempted to run into the adjoining living premises, where Mr Patel's wife and children were, the shopkeeper grabbed a craft knife he had been using to open packaging.

He slashed Lee Thompson across the face, leaving a wound needing 60 external stitches and 30 internal stitches. His brother also suffered a deep cut to his neck.

Mr Patel also suffered a cut to his hand in the struggle.

Lee Thompson, aged 31, of Eastham Way and Anthony Thompson, aged 27, of Briarhill Grove, both Little Hulton, were each sentenced to seven years at Bolton Crown Court.

Both admitted attempted robbery, arson, theft and possessing an offensive weapon.

Sentencing them, Judge William Morris said: "You both set out to put the shopkeeper in fear.

"The fact you both suffered injuries doesn't aid your mitigation."

Mr Patel, who has owned the shop for 18 years said: "I just acted automatically. Afterwards I realised what I had done and I couldn't believe it.

"It is the first time anything like this has happened but I would do it again.

"I had a right to defend my family, myself, my home and my business.

"They deserved what they got and shouldn't have done what they did."

Mr Patel's wife Sumidra, two daughters Priti, aged 10, Priya, aged six and three-year-old son Predesh were not injured.

Det Insp Andy Aston of Bolton CID said: "Tackling robbery remains a high priority. We will investigate all incidents and bring offenders before the courts.

"This sentence hopefully reflects what people can expect if they commit such offences.

"Mr Patel acted very bravely."