A motorbike rider was pushed into the path of oncoming traffic in an apparent road rage incident in Stanway yesterday.

The motorcyclist was travelling along London Road at about 9.30am when she was overtaken by a silver or grey car. The car then braked sharply and stopped.

When the motorcyclist attempted to ride around the car the driver got out and pushed her, forcing her onto the other side of the road.

The car driver was then verbally abusive towards her, before returning to his car and driving off.

Pc Craig Scott, investigating officer, said: “Fortunately, the oncoming drivers saw the motorcyclist and were able to slow down, preventing a potentially serious accident.

“There is no place for this type of behaviour on the roads of Essex and I am asking anyone who saw this incident to contact me so that I can find the person responsible.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Pc Scott at Colchester Police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.