A cyclist was left with a deep gash to his head last week after he was shoved from behind in a “nasty” attack.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the assault in Crooked Mile, Waltham Abbey, at around 6.30pm last Friday (December 4).

The victim, a 42-year-old man, lost control of his bicycle after he was pushed from behind.

He collided with a tree and was left with a deep gash to his head and cuts to arms and hands, causing him to lose a significant amount of blood.

The man, who has not been named, thanked two nurses who stopped at the scene for their help after the vicious attack.

Investigating officer Pc Tom Hardingham said: “I would urge anyone with information to come forward to help us identify the people responsible for this nasty assault.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Pc Hardingham on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.