Ex- addict returns to the scene of the crime and leaves......a note of apology and $400 in cash.

A family who run a grocery store in Nashville were astounded and moved by the actions of a former drug addict and thief who robbed them about 12 years ago.

Somboon Wu, son of store owner Keosavanh Xayarath, explained that an unidentified man came into the InterAsian Market and Deli at the start of September and insisted they take an envelope.

Though they were initially concerned about opening what he handed over, when they did they found a handwritten note of apology, a plea for forgiveness and $400 in cash.

It turned out that the gesture came from the same man who had held up the store at gunpoint and stole $300 over a decade earlier. 

The letter read: 'I do not use drugs anymore, and I feel I must make amends to the people I have hurt in the past.'

The man explained what he had done, concluding: 'I hope you will accept this money and find forgiveness. Peace be with you, Anonymous.' 

Wu and his father were so moved that they scanned the note and put it on Twitter and Instagram.

The family added the caption: 'We were robbed about 11 or 12 years. Today, we surprisingly received this note from the robber and the stolen cash returned. 

'This is truly inspirational and reminds us that there are plenty of good people in this world. To the anonymous person, we want to tell you all is forgiven and thank for your note,' they continued.

'We don't care about the money. We are more inspired and touched by your act. We hope you find peace in life and prosperity. Best wishes!' 

Wu told Nashville Scene: 'Isn't it amazing? We don't know this guy, but we want to let people know he's out there trying to fix his life.'

'You know, we get cynical,' he continued. 'I get cynical ... a lot. But this just slaps you in the face. There are good people out there, and they deserve a second chance.'

The family are clear that they accept the requests of the man who put them through such a scary experience all those years ago.

Wu explained to WSMV: 'We just want to let him know if he's watching, wherever life takes you, we forgive you for what you did.'