Van driver who chased cyclist and knocked him off bike 'had a gun'

A cyclist who was reportedly chased by the driver of a white van who knocked him off his bike told a person who went to his aid that the motorist had a gun.

Thames Valley Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident, which happened in Wokingham, Berkshire between 9.30pm and 10.15pm on the evening of Wednesday 7 September.

The force says that a member of the public saw the white van, which had ladders on its roof, being driving “erratically” on the Wiltshire Road in Elizabeth Park.

The witness said the motorist appeared to be chasing the male cyclist and collided with him, knocking him from his bike and then driving off.

When the person went to check that the cyclist was okay, the rider said, “He’s got a gun,” then got back on his bike and rode off in the direction of Norreys Avenue.

Police say that they were notified of a separate incident that evening that they believe may be linked.

PC Benjamin Taylor of the Wokingham neighbourhood team said: “There was a further report that night of someone in a white van pointing a gun and a knife and driving erratically.

“So we would urge anyone with any information about this van or who might have seen this incident in Wiltshire Road to contact us.”

PC Taylor can be reached through the Thames Valley Police Enquiry Centre on 101 quoting URN 1796 7/9, or alternatively anyone with information can contact the charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.