A driver who almost ran a police road safety worker over in a fit of rage has been hit with a fine.

Daniel Rundle, was ordered to pay more than £1,000 and handed five points on his licence for the incident in Epping Upland in July last year.

On the day in question, an Essex Police worker was carrying out traffic research in Epping Road when Rundle pulled up beside her.

The 31-year-old, of Markwell Wood, Harlow, began to hurl abuse at the woman, parking in front of her to block her view before reversing back towards her, missing he legs by inches.

The worker recorded the incident on her body camera and was so concerned for her safety she left the scene and reported the encounter.

Rundle was summonsed to appear at Colchester Magistrates’ Court in November, where he pleaded not guilty.

He was found guilty of driving without due care and attention on Friday and was fined £462, ordered to pay £520 in costs and £100 in compensation.

Adam Pipe, head of roads policing, said: “Rundle went out of his way to intimidate a police staff officer who was simply doing her job – helping to make Essex a safer place to live and drive.

“He used his aggression and his vehicle to threaten an experienced and hardworking member of the team.

“Rundle told the court that he only pulled over because he felt unwell and needed a drink to avoid having an accident, fortunately the court saw through his lies and he has since been convicted.”