Certainly did Redkettle. You need to understand we had been BF/GF in my head for six months preceding and I was suffering severe EAS. I wish it was a joke mate, I really do. Don't worry two of my closest buddies remind me regularly what a cock I've been. They are right and hopefully results in better future decision making.
I feel you bro, it can happen to anyone.
For the violence, I haven't during my time but I am always careful, the chances of being robbed are increased on this hobby then say playing chess. If you plan each punt well, ie - do your research on AW + here, use the Punting Guidelines, find out as much as you can and make judgement calls and you'll be safe. You might still get a shit punt but you'd be extremely unlikely to be robbed and even in robberies, stories I hear the punter wouldn't be harmed unless they refused to hand over money...I treat the idea of being robbed in these situations as I would do in my office...keep calm, give them the money quickly and quietly without hassle and then soon as they go phone the police.
Despite fact I think there is only a one in a few thousand chances of me being robbed considering the care I take, I still have a few rules just in case. Take only exact change, only take what you need, punting phone should be something cheap like a £9 pay as you go disposable. If you plan to go eat after, leave your wallet hidden out of sight in the car. If you drive, park a few minutes away not straight outside, though some girls will invite you to park on their property if you don't feel comfortable, don't listen to them (though most do it so they know you're not a timewaster). As mentioned don't take any jewellery, expensive items and such - I always say to myself if I do get robbed, I won't lose much: Cheap phone and price of the punt. Of course they could take your car keys but you parked 5 minutes around the corner, they're looking for a Ford across several streets, could be any vehicle, why would they waste time looking for it when they want to flee the crime scene - Most robbers won't bother going this far I'd wager.
I used to be quite nervous thinking about the odds I get robbed/mugged.