A CYCLIST was attacked by a gang of thugs after being involved in a crash with their car.

Essex Police has launched an investigation after a man in his 50s was assaulted in Hickory Avenue area of Colchester, at the junction of Hawthorne Avenue.

The incident occurred between 5.30pm and 6pm on May 17 after the pedal-pusher and a black hatchback collided.

Three men are then said to have instantly exited the vehicle, launching an attack on the man before fleeing the scene.

After the shocking ordeal the cyclist, who was not injured as a result of the assault, continued on his journey before reporting the incident to police three days later.

Essex Police are now appealing for anyone with CCTV, dash cam, or doorbell footage or eyewitnesses who saw the attack or the events leading up to it to contact them.

A spokesman for the force said: “You can submit a report online at essex.police.uk or use the Live Chat button to speak to an online operator between 7am and 11pm.

“Please quote the crime reference number 42/127562/22. You can also call us on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”