A cyclist who was knocked off his bike by a van which then fled the scene has criticised the police for their lack of action.

Richard Witter, 29, of Hedley Road, St Albans, was cycling home from work on St Albans Road in Sandridge when he was hit by a van on April 20.

He told the Herts Advertiser that the van reversed into him after attempting to overtake before realising there was an oncoming car.

The van then proceeded to leave the scene without leaving any details, and Richard is still trying to track down the driver.

The cyclist tore a ligament in his shoulder, preventing him from driving, cycling and being able to type or write properly for three weeks.

The incident was caught on camera by a local driving instructor but five weeks later, and after numerous calls to the police, the evidence has still yet to be examined.

Richard said: “I’ve heard barely anything from the police. I’ve chased them and chased them and the only time I’ve had a response is when I’ve called them.

“The driving instructor has tangible evidence which could identify the van but he hasn’t had a single call from police.

“My main issue is that just a few proactive calls from the police could have prevented me from spending weeks calling around. All the while the driver is still out on the roads.”

A spokeswoman for Herts Police said: “We can confirm the collision is being actively investigated and relevant witnesses are in the process of being contacted by post.

“By law, from the date of a collision there is a six month period to allow investigations to take place and prosecute, should any offences have been committed.

“We appreciate this time period may be of concern to individuals involved in such incidents; however, this allows for a full investigation to take place.”